Forasmuch is a slightly archaic term meaning "inasmuch as" or "since." Its spelling may be a bit confusing due to irregularities in English spelling. The word begins with the sound represented by the letter "f," followed by the "oh" sound as in "or," and then three syllables consisting of the "uh" sound as in "up," followed by "so," and ending with "much." In IPA transcription, this word would be written as /fɔːrəsˈmʌtʃ/. Despite its somewhat antiquated feel, forasmuch can still be an effective way to convey a sense of formal authority or gravity in writing or speech.
Forasmuch is an archaic adverb that has its roots in Middle English and serves to introduce a clause or a prepositional phrase with the purpose of emphasizing the extent or degree to which something is true or has been done. It can also be used to introduce a reason or justification for a preceding statement or action. The word is formed by the combination of "for" and "as much," denoting a large amount or degree.
In practical terms, "forasmuch" is often employed to express a factual observation or as a way to acknowledge a certain fact or circumstance. It essentially functions as a conjunction, linking ideas or facts together in a formal or elaborate manner. While the term is more commonly found in historical or literary texts, it is still occasionally used today in formal writing or speeches for its archaic or poetic effect.
Furthermore, "forasmuch" is particularly associated with legal or religious contexts, where it can be found in texts such as legal documents, religious sermons, or formal codes of conduct. Its usage in such settings is meant to confer a sense of authority, formality, or gravitas to the statement or argument being made. Overall, "forasmuch" serves as a linguistic tool to emphasize or provide additional information, often with a tone of conviction and certainty.
Because that.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "forasmuch" is derived from Middle English and can be traced back to Old English roots. It is a compound word formed from the words "for" and "asmuch".
The word "for" in Old English referred to "because", "since", or "in consideration of", indicating a cause or reason. It is related to the German word "für" and the Latin word "pro".
The word "asmuch" in Old English meant "as much" or "to the same extent", and was formed by combining the prefix "as-" (meaning "to" or "like") and the adjective "much" (meaning a great amount or extent).
When combined, the word "forasmuch" formed in Middle English to mean "because" or "in consideration of the fact that". It was commonly used in legal and formal contexts to introduce a statement or reason.