is so that

USAGE SUMMARY

"is so that" can be used in written English.
It is used to join two clauses together, in a way that links the reason for the first clause to the second clause. For example: "I arrived early so that I could get a good seat."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The primary reason that states honor their debts is so that they can keep borrowing.

The New Yorker

Some claim it is so that their names can help to drag voters towards their party.

The Economist

Google is doing this is so that founders can maintain control of the company.

The New York Times

Presumably one reason the US is force-feeding these men is so that they face justice.

Independent

Einstein observed that "the only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once".

The New York Times

For each there is so that for all, (a a real-valued mapping is measurable for all, (b there is so that (2.8).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

(a there is so that if then the Bochner integral (2.2).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

The disadvantage of hand-tracking input is so that there is no tactile feedback.

Journal of Big Data

This is so that the winning regions, regarding the SE effect, are located inside the circle.

Journal of Economic Structures

This is so that the chance of losing a packet is smaller.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

A convenient choice is, so that the velocity of sound can be expressed as for.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is so that", ensure that the subject of the main clause is clearly linked to the action or result in the subordinate clause. Clarity is key to conveying the intended purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "is so that" when simply describing a characteristic or state. This phrase should only be used when one action directly leads to another with a clear purpose.

Linguistic Context

"Is so that" functions as a conjunction phrase, specifically a purpose clause. It introduces a subordinate clause that explains the reason or aim behind the action or state described in the main clause. This is supported by Ludwig's analysis and the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

28%

News & Media

25%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is so that" is a versatile phrase used to express purpose or intent, linking a reason to a desired outcome. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and general web content. While alternatives like "in order that" and "so that" exist, "is so that" provides a clear and direct way to explain why something is done in a particular manner. To ensure clarity, always link the subject of the main clause with the intended action or result.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so that

Slightly more concise and versatile, suitable for a wider range of contexts.

in order to

A common and versatile phrase for expressing purpose.

so as to

A more concise way of expressing purpose, often used in formal writing.

in order that

More formal and often used in legal or official contexts.

in such a way that

Emphasizes the manner or method by which a result is achieved.

with the aim that

Highlights the intention or goal behind an action.

for the purpose of

Focuses on the specific objective being pursued.

to the end that

A more formal and literary way of expressing purpose.

with the intent to

Emphasizes the deliberate intention behind an action.

that way

It indicates how something should be done.

FAQs

How can I use "is so that" in a sentence?

Use "is so that" to connect a reason or explanation to a desired outcome. For example: "The lighting is dim so that the atmosphere is cozy."

What phrases can I use instead of "is so that"?

Alternatives include "in order that", "so that", or "in such a way that", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "is so that" and "so that"?

"Is so that" includes an explicit verb "is", often used to highlight the reason or explanation, while "so that" is more concise and commonly used. The meaning remains largely the same.

When is it inappropriate to use "is so that"?

Avoid using "is so that" when describing a simple state or characteristic without a clear purpose or intended outcome. Use it primarily to link cause and effect.