done so

USAGE SUMMARY

"done so" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically follows a verb and acts as an adverb of manner, indicating that the action was carried out in a certain way. For example, "The doctors worked tirelessly to find a cure, and have done so with success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I have done so.

The New York Times - Magazine

You've done so much.

The New York Times

Few have done so.

The New York Times

They have done so.

The New York Times - Sports

Most have done so.

The Economist

Surprisingly few have done so.

The New York Times - Health

(Only 95 have done so).

The New York Times - Sports

Some have done so already.

The Economist

"I have now done so.

The New York Times

Spotify hasn't really done so.

Independent

Some have already done so.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "done so" to avoid repeating a verb or phrase, making your writing more concise and elegant. Ensure the context is clear so the reader understands what "done so" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "done so" when the action you're referring to is ambiguous or not immediately clear from the context. This can confuse the reader and weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "done so" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action was performed or completed. As Ludwig AI highlights, it typically follows an auxiliary verb.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "done so" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to avoid repetition and indicate the completion of an action, as Ludwig AI confirms. It's grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to ensure that the reference is clear to avoid ambiguity. Remember to use "done so" strategically to enhance conciseness and clarity in your writing. Alternatives like "acted accordingly" or "carried it out" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

did that

A simpler, more direct substitute for "done so", suitable for informal contexts.

accomplished it

Emphasizes the successful completion of a task or goal.

carried it out

Focuses on the execution aspect, highlighting the process of completing the action.

executed it

Similar to 'carried it out' but implies a more structured or planned approach.

effected it

A formal way of saying something was brought about or achieved.

acted accordingly

Replaces "done so" with a more formal and direct indication of acting in a suitable manner.

followed through

Stresses the persistence and commitment to completing an action.

saw it through

Similar to 'followed through' but suggests enduring hardship to achieve completion.

brought it about

Highlights the act of causing something to happen or be achieved.

brought to fruition

Emphasizes that something has been fully developed and realized.

FAQs

How can I use "done so" in a sentence?

"Done so" typically follows a verb and indicates that an action has been completed in a specific manner. For example, "The company promised to improve its customer service, and it has "done so" by implementing a new training program".

What are some alternatives to "done so"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "acted accordingly", "did that", or "carried it out" as alternatives to "done so".

Is it ever incorrect to use "done so"?

While generally correct, "done so" can be misused if the action it refers to is unclear or ambiguous. Ensure that the reference is evident to avoid confusing the reader.

What's the difference between "done so" and "did so"?

"Done so" is typically used with auxiliary verbs like "have" or "has" to indicate a completed action in the present perfect tense. "Did so" is the past tense equivalent. For example, "They said they would help, and they have "done so"" versus "They said they would help, and they "did so"".