When modifying a single word, do not place a comma before or after "accordingly" to separate it from the verb it describes. At the start of a sentence or a clause, add a comma after "accordingly" to signal that it modifies the whole sentence or clause that follows.
When modifying a single word, do not place a comma before or after "accordingly" to separate it from the verb it describes.
Please follow these instructions and act accordingly.
Please follow these instructions and act, accordingly.
At the start of a sentence or a clause, add a comma after "accordingly" to signal that it modifies the whole sentence or clause that follows.
The driver was caught at nearly 120mph; accordingly, he got a ticket for speeding.
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1. How to Use 'Accordingly' in a Sentence
"Accordingly" can be used:
- to express "in an appropriate way" or "right for the situation" (e.g., "This is a formal event, so dress accordingly.")
- as a synonym of "therefore" or "as a result" (e.g., "The flight was delayed; accordingly, he arrived late to the meeting.")
2. Expressing that something is appropriate for a situation
We often use "accordingly" to say that something is appropriate for the particular circumstances.
We need to know their plans and act accordingly.
In examples like these, "accordingly" modifies a single word ("act" in the sentence above).
This is an expert audience, so avoid giving them a background of the topic and speak accordingly.
Since we do not commonly use commas to separate single-word adverbs from the verb they modify, no comma is required in these sentences.
The project is behind schedule and should be managed accordingly.
The project is behind schedule and should be managed, accordingly.
More examples:
The text has been edited, and the comments below should be arranged accordingly.
Technology is evolving fast, and the Congress should enforce regulations accordingly.
3. 'Accordingly' as a Synonym of 'Therefore'
We can also use "accordingly" as a synonym of "therefore", "hence", or "as a result".
The student violated the university rules; accordingly, he was placed on disciplinary probation.
In this case, "accordingly" is a conjunctive adverb; it modifies a complete sentence or clause instead of a single word.
Surveys suggest that consumers are unwilling to pay higher prices. Accordingly, arrange a meeting so that we can review the pricing policies of the company.
At the beginning of a sentence, we generally add a comma after conjunctive adverbs, such as "accordingly", to signal that they describe the whole sentence or clause that follows.
There was no evidence that Emma committed the crime; accordingly, she was not arrested.
When including "accordingly" in mid-sentence to interrupt a clause, using commas is generally unnecessary if the interruption is slight.
She overslept and accordingly arrived late.
