[Grammar] using so

[KenH ESL]

I teach ESL to adults. What are the "rules" for using "so"?

 

[TheParser]

I teach ESL to adults. What are the "rules" for using "so"?

***** NOT A TEACHER *****

Good morning, Ken.

(1) "So" is one of my favorite words, so may I share some ideas?

(a) I have just used it as a coordinating conjunction.

(b) Americans use it that way a lot.

(2) I am going early so I can get a good seat.

(a) Many strict teachers require "so that" -- subordinating conjunction of purpose.

(3) I went early yesterday, so I got a good seat.

(a) Many strict teachers require "so that" -- subordinating conjunction of result.

(4) SUPER strict teachers (there may be a few left) say that "so"

is not a conjunction. Only an adverb. Thus they require:

(a) I was sick yesterday; so I didn't go to work.

(b) I was sick yesterday. So I didn't go to work.

(c) Of course, I would guess that 99% of people would write:

I was sick yesterday, so I didn't go to work. (coordinating conjunction)

That is probably the best thing to teach ESL students (and native speakers, too).

Have a nice day!


*****

Of course, "so" is not always a coordinating conjunction.

(a) I was SO tired (THAT I couldn't keep my eyes open).

(i) "So" is an adverb that modifies "tired."

(ii) "that I couldn't keep my eyes open" is an adverb clause that modifies "so."

*****

Will Tom come?

I think so.

(a) "So" = a noun clause (that Tom will come).