In so far as
Academic discourse marker used to connect ideas
直訳: Within the distance that
Use it to define the exact limit of why something is true or valid.
15秒でわかる
- Sets a specific limit or boundary on a statement.
- Used to say something is true only to a certain degree.
- Common in academic writing and very formal professional debates.
意味
Think of this as a way to say 'only to this specific degree' or 'to the extent that.' It helps you set a limit on a statement so you don't sound like you're exaggerating.
主な例文
3 / 6In a professional meeting
The merger is beneficial in so far as it expands our market reach.
The merger is good only because it helps us reach more customers.
Texting a friend about a bad movie
I enjoyed the film in so far as the visual effects were cool.
I only liked the movie because the special effects looked good.
Discussing a relationship
I can forgive you in so far as you are willing to change.
My forgiveness depends entirely on your willingness to change.
文化的背景
This phrase is a hallmark of Western analytical philosophy and legal tradition. It became a staple in the 1800s for thinkers who wanted to define the exact boundaries of their arguments. Today, it remains a 'prestige' marker in English, often used by academics, lawyers, and politicians to sound authoritative yet cautious.
One word or three?
In modern English, `insofar as` (one word) is much more common in business. Use the three-word version only if you want to look very traditional.
Don't overdo it
Using this twice in one paragraph makes you sound like a robot. Mix it up with `to the degree that` or `provided that`.
15秒でわかる
- Sets a specific limit or boundary on a statement.
- Used to say something is true only to a certain degree.
- Common in academic writing and very formal professional debates.
What It Means
Imagine you are drawing a line in the sand. In so far as is that line. It tells people, 'I agree with you, but only up to this point.' It is a tool for being incredibly precise. You aren't saying something is 100% true. You are saying it is true only because of a specific reason. It’s like saying, 'I like this pizza, but only because the crust is thin.'
How To Use It
You usually put it at the start of a sentence or to join two ideas. Use it when you want to qualify a statement. For example: The plan works in so far as we have the money. This means if the money disappears, the plan fails. It sounds very smart and careful. You are protecting yourself from being wrong later. It’s the ultimate 'lawyer' phrase for everyday life.
When To Use It
Use it when you are in a serious meeting. It works great during deep late-night talks about life. Use it when writing an essay or a formal email. If you want to sound like a philosopher at a party, drop this phrase. It shows you have thought deeply about the details. It’s perfect for when you want to be honest without being mean.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this at a loud bar. Your friends will think you are a textbook. Avoid it when texting about simple things like 'What's for dinner?' If you say, 'I want tacos in so far as they are spicy,' your friends might block you. It is too heavy for casual small talk. Keep it away from high-energy sports moments too. Nobody shouts this at a referee.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from a time when English writers loved long, complex logic. It feels very British and academic. It was popular in 19th-century philosophy and law books. Today, it signals that you are an intellectual or a very careful thinker. In the US, it is often seen as a sign of high education. It’s the linguistic equivalent of wearing a monocle.
Common Variations
You will often see it written as one word: insofar as. Both are correct. Some people just say to the extent that. That is the 'jeans and t-shirt' version of this phrase. In so far as is the full tuxedo. Use the one-word version in modern business writing. Use the three-word version if you want to feel extra fancy.
使い方のコツ
This is a high-register phrase. It is almost exclusively found in writing or formal speeches; using it in casual conversation may be perceived as ironic or overly intellectual.
One word or three?
In modern English, `insofar as` (one word) is much more common in business. Use the three-word version only if you want to look very traditional.
Don't overdo it
Using this twice in one paragraph makes you sound like a robot. Mix it up with `to the degree that` or `provided that`.
The 'Smart' Signal
Native speakers often use this phrase specifically to signal they are being 'logical' during a heated argument to calm things down.
例文
6The merger is beneficial in so far as it expands our market reach.
The merger is good only because it helps us reach more customers.
The speaker is limiting the 'goodness' of the merger to one specific reason.
I enjoyed the film in so far as the visual effects were cool.
I only liked the movie because the special effects looked good.
A slightly humorous way to use a formal phrase for a casual topic.
I can forgive you in so far as you are willing to change.
My forgiveness depends entirely on your willingness to change.
This sets a clear condition for an emotional outcome.
The theory is valid in so far as the data remains consistent.
The theory works as long as the data doesn't change.
Classic academic usage to show the limits of a scientific claim.
You can go out in so far as your homework is finished first.
You can go out only if your homework is done.
Using high-level language to sound more authoritative as a parent.
The law is just in so far as it protects the vulnerable.
The law is only fair because it helps people in need.
Used to define the moral boundary of a law.
自分をテスト
Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence about a job offer.
I will accept the position ___ it allows me to work from home.
The speaker is setting a specific condition or limit on their acceptance.
Complete the sentence to show a limited agreement.
The vacation was a success ___ we didn't get rained on.
This indicates the success was defined specifically by the lack of rain.
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ビジュアル学習ツール
Formality Level of 'In so far as'
Talking to siblings
Basically...
Talking to a boss
As long as...
Writing a report
To the extent that...
Legal or Academic
In so far as...
When to use 'In so far as'
University Essay
Defining a thesis limit
Contract Negotiation
Setting legal boundaries
Serious Debate
Qualifying an argument
Sarcastic Text
Mocking someone's logic
よくある質問
10 問Yes, they are identical in meaning. Insofar as is the modern, more common spelling, while in so far as is the traditional version.
Not exactly. While it explains a reason, it specifically limits the reason. Use in so far as when you want to say 'only because of this one thing.'
It depends on your boss! If your office is corporate and serious, it's perfect. If you work at a startup, it might sound a bit stiff.
You can use to the extent that or as long as. For example, I agree in so far as... becomes I agree to the extent that...
Yes, the as is required to connect it to the next part of the sentence. Without it, the phrase is incomplete.
It is used in both! It is a standard part of formal English globally, though it feels slightly more 'at home' in British academic writing.
Absolutely. For example: In so far as we are concerned, the matter is closed. This is a very strong way to begin a statement.
No. As far as I know means 'based on my information.' In so far as means 'to the degree that something is true.' They are cousins, but not twins.
People often forget the in. Saying so far as is okay, but it changes the meaning slightly to sound more like as far as.
It can. If you use it to describe why you like a sandwich, yes. If you use it in a debate about ethics, no.
関連フレーズ
To the extent that
Inasmuch as
In light of
Provided that
Relative to
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