Understanding the subtle difference between words like thereof” and “thereon” can make a significant impact on writing clarity, especially in legal, academic, and formal contexts. Though both terms are somewhat archaic in everyday conversation, they are still actively used in formal documents. They serve different grammatical functions and convey specific relationships between actions and things previously mentioned. To avoid confusion and communicate more effectively, it’s important to explore how each term works and when it should be used. Mastery of these terms contributes to precision in written and spoken English, particularly in legal writing, formal contracts, scholarly topics, and technical documentation.
Understanding “Thereof”
Definition of Thereof
The word “thereof” is a compound of “there” and “of,” and it typically means “of that” or “of it.” It is used to refer back to something previously mentioned, indicating possession, association, or origin. “Thereof” functions similarly to the phrase of the thing just mentioned.
How to Use Thereof
“Thereof” is often used to refer to
- Ownership or possession
- Parts or components of something
- Rights or obligations arising from something
Examples of Thereof in Sentences
- The terms of the agreement and the enforcementthereofshall be governed by state law.
- He received a patent and all rightsthereof.
- The certificate and the benefitsthereofare non-transferable.
In each example, “thereof” is used to point back to a noun mentioned earlier, such as “agreement,” “rights,” or “certificate.” It usually replaces “of the agreement,” “of the rights,” or “of the certificate,” making the sentence more concise and formal.
Understanding “Thereon”
Definition of Thereon
“Thereon” is a compound of “there” and “on,” and it usually means “on that” or “on it.” Like “thereof,” it refers back to something previously mentioned. However, “thereon” emphasizes an action taking placeonorin relation tothe subject.
How to Use Thereon
“Thereon” is typically used when
- Describing an action or result based on something
- Talking about physical or metaphorical positioning
- Referring to a subject that influences or is influenced by something else
Examples of Thereon in Sentences
- The proposal was submitted and the committee will votethereonnext week.
- The application and decisions madethereonare final.
- He placed the signature and the sealthereon.
In these examples, “thereon” points to an action performed on or about a previously mentioned subject, such as a proposal, application, or document. It functions as a formal and concise substitute for phrases like “on the proposal,” “on the application,” or “on the document.”
Key Differences Between Thereof and Thereon
Meaning and Preposition Use
The core difference lies in the preposition involved
- “Thereof” =of that
- “Thereon” =on that
This distinction is subtle but important. “Thereof” deals with possession or parts of something, while “thereon” relates to actions occurring on or in relation to something.
Context of Use
Both words are primarily found in legal or formal writing, but their applications differ. Use “thereof” when referring to ownership, content, or elements of a subject. Use “thereon” when an action is being performed based on or physically upon something.
Examples for Direct Comparison
- The contract and all clausesthereofmust be reviewed.
(“Thereof” refers to the clauses that are part of the contract.) - The contract was signed, and the company actedthereon.
(“Thereon” refers to actions taken based on the contract.)
When to Avoid These Terms
Although “thereof” and “thereon” are grammatically correct and precise, they can sound overly formal or even archaic in casual conversation or modern business writing. In most everyday contexts, it’s better to replace them with simpler expressions like
- “Of it” instead of “thereof”
- “On it” or “based on it” instead of “thereon”
However, in legal writing, academic topics, official contracts, or government policies, using “thereof” and “thereon” can enhance clarity and reduce redundancy.
Practical Tips for Writers
If you’re unsure about which term to use, follow these practical guidelines
- Use “thereof”when you’re pointing back to something and talking about its components, contents, or ownership.
- Use “thereon”when you are referring to actions or decisions that are placed upon or made based on something.
- Always ensure the antecedent (the thing referred to) is clear and unambiguous.
- When writing for a general audience, consider replacing these terms with simpler equivalents unless formality is required.
Common Legal Phrases with Thereof and Thereon
To better understand how frequently these words appear in formal writing, consider these common phrases found in legal contracts and documents
With Thereof
- and all rights and obligations arisingthereof
- the provisions of the law and interpretationsthereof
- and any breachthereofshall be subject to penalties.
With Thereon
- the board shall issue a decisionthereonwithin 30 days.
- to vote on the resolution and all mattersthereon
- deliberations heldthereonshall be recorded.
The difference between “thereof” and “thereon” may appear small at first glance, but understanding how each functions improves writing precision, especially in formal or legal contexts. “Thereof” refers to parts, rights, or aspectsofsomething, while “thereon” refers to actions or decisionsonor based on something previously mentioned. Though these words are not often used in casual conversation, they remain valuable in professional writing. Using them accurately shows command of formal English and attention to linguistic detail. By recognizing their distinct meanings and contexts, writers can communicate more clearly and confidently in complex or official documents.