So - meaning and usage. What does 'so' mean in English?
The word "so" is incredibly versatile in English and can serve many different functions depending on its context.
Meaning
1. A1
(adverb) very
I’m so hungry!
She was so tired after the trip.
She looked so beautiful in that dress.
I was so surprised to see him at the party!
2. A1
(adverb) to such a great degree
He is not so tall as his brother.
She was so upset that she couldn't speak.
It’s not so cold today as it was yesterday.
It's so cold outside that my fingers are numb.
3. A2
(adverb) used to refer to something mentioned earlier
"Will they win the game? I think so."
"Are you coming to the party?" "I hope so."
"Are they moving to a new city?" "It seems so."
"Do you think it will rain tomorrow?""I don't think so."
4. B1
(adverb) also
"Her parents are doctors, and so is she."
"She worked late last night, and so did I."
"She enjoys hiking, and so does her brother."
Neither or either is used in negatives, not so. 'I'm not tired.' 'Neither am I.' 'I'm not sleepy.' 'I'm not sleepy either.' |
5. A1
(conjunction) used to show a reason, purpose or result
It was raining, so we stayed inside.
He left early so he could catch the train.
The team practiced every day, so they won the championship.
6. A2
(conjunction) used to introduce a conclusion, continuation or comment
So, what do you want to do this weekend?
So, what do you think about the new policy?
So, that’s why I decided to change my plans.
So, you had a great time at the concert, huh?