To some degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To some degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a certain level of something, often implying that it is not absolute or complete. Example: "The project was successful to some degree, but there were still several challenges that needed to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To some degree.

The New York Times - Magazine

To some degree, probably yes.

The New York Times - Arts

To some degree, they can.

The Economist

To some degree, it worked.

The Economist

To some degree this is "common sense".

The New York Times

"To some degree, yeah," she nods.

Independent

To some degree, I speak from experience.

The New York Times - Magazine

To some degree, but on the margins.

The New York Times

To some degree, Mr. Wohlin was right.

The New York Times

To some degree, it's a mystery".

The New Yorker

To some degree this is true.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to some degree" when you want to acknowledge a point without fully committing to it, providing a nuanced perspective. For example, "The policy change was effective, to some degree, but further adjustments are needed."

Common error

Avoid using "to some degree" excessively in your writing. Overuse can make your statements sound weak or indecisive. Vary your language by using stronger, more direct phrasing when appropriate, or opt for alternatives like "partially" or "somewhat".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to some degree" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate the extent or level to which something is true or valid. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples. It adds nuance, acknowledging partial agreement or influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to some degree" is a useful adverbial phrase that adds nuance to statements by indicating a partial or limited extent. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical function is sound, and it is widely used in various contexts, especially in news and media. It is important to use the phrase judiciously to avoid weakening your statements and to consider stronger alternatives when appropriate. Remember that alternatives such as "partially" or "to a certain extent" can provide similar meaning. While the phrase is versatile, avoid overusing it to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To a certain extent

Replaces "degree" with "extent", maintaining the same meaning of partiality.

In part

Shortens the phrase while keeping the core concept of something being partially true or responsible.

Somewhat

A single-word replacement indicating a moderate amount or degree.

Partially

An adverb that directly expresses the idea of something being not complete.

To a limited extent

Emphasizes the restriction or limitation of the degree or impact.

Up to a point

Suggests that something is true or valid only to a specific limit or boundary.

In a way

Indicates a particular aspect or perspective in which something is true.

To a small degree

Highlights the minimal impact or influence.

On a smaller scale

Suggests a reduced or diminished magnitude.

Within limits

Implies restrictions or boundaries to the extent or impact.

FAQs

What does "to some degree" mean?

The phrase "to some degree" indicates that something is true, effective, or present only "in part", or not completely. It acknowledges a certain level or extent without implying full agreement or completion.

How can I use "to some degree" in a sentence?

You can use "to some degree" to qualify a statement. For example: "The new strategy helped increase sales, "to a certain extent", but other factors also played a role."

What are some alternatives to saying "to some degree"?

Alternatives include "somewhat", "partially", "to a limited extent", or "up to a point". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "to some degree" or "to some extent"?

"To some degree" and "to some extent" are largely interchangeable. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or what sounds more natural in a particular sentence. Both indicate a partial or limited effect.