What does the phrase "as a result" typically indicate in a sentence?

The phrase "as a result" typically indicates a cause and effect relationship within a sentence. When this phrase is used, it signals that something occurred due to a specific cause or event previously mentioned. For example, if a sentence states, "The team practiced diligently, and as a result, they won the championship," it illustrates how their practice led directly to their victory. This phrasing helps to clarify the connection between the cause (the diligent practice) and its effect (winning the championship), thus emphasizing the relationship between the two elements.