having done so

USAGE SUMMARY

"having done so" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to refer to an action that has already been completed. For example, "I have tried my best to help you, and having done so, I can now step away and let you handle it from here."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(It denied having done so).

The Guardian

Ma denies having done so.

The Guardian

Mr. Ali has denied having done so.

The New York Times

Mr. Fisk denied having done so.

The New York Times

She soon regretted having done so.

The New York Times

Having done so once, he cannot do so again.

The Economist

But, having done so, they wanted to play the game.

Independent

A spokesman could not recall any ever having done so.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Nor is Ryan alone in having done so.

The Guardian

Having done so she prods it with the probe.

The Guardian - Sport

As his brother did, he denies having done so.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "having done so" to clearly indicate that one action is completed before another begins, ensuring a smooth and logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid placing "having done so" too far from the action it modifies, as this can create ambiguity and confuse the reader. Ensure the phrase directly follows or clearly refers to the completed action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having done so" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as an adverbial modifier. It typically introduces a clause that describes the consequence or result of a previously mentioned action. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it refers to an action that has already been completed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "having done so" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to connect completed actions with their consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various writing styles, particularly in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While common, ensure its placement is clear to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "after doing that" or "once that was done" for simpler phrasing. Remember, the goal is to clearly indicate the completion of an action before introducing its result.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

once that was done

This alternative uses a more explicit structure, replacing the gerund phrase with a clause.

after accomplishing that

This phrase emphasizes the accomplishment aspect of the action.

with that completed

This option uses a participial phrase to indicate the completion.

once it's been executed

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the execution of the action.

upon its completion

This phrase is more formal and focuses on the finalization of the action.

following that action

This alternative uses a more direct and sequential approach.

after that was achieved

This phrase highlights the achievement aspect of the action.

subsequent to that

This is a more formal and concise way to indicate sequence.

with that task finished

This alternative specifies 'task' and emphasizes completion.

that being accomplished

This option uses a passive construction to emphasize the state of completion.

FAQs

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

Use "having done so" to connect a completed action with its subsequent result or consequence. For example, "He completed the report, and "having done so", he submitted it to his manager."

What's a more formal alternative to "having done so"?

More formal alternatives include phrases like "upon completion of that" or "subsequent to that". These options may be suitable for academic or professional writing.

Is there a simpler way to say "having done so"?

Yes, you could use simpler phrases like "after doing that" or "once that was done". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

How does "having done so" differ from "after doing so"?

"Having done so" emphasizes the completion of an action and its direct consequence, while "after doing so" simply indicates a sequence of events. The former can add a subtle sense of finality or purpose.