isn't that so

USAGE SUMMARY

"isn't that so" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used in spoken English and informal writing, but can also be used in more formal settings. Example: "The new policy will be implemented next week, isn't that so?" This phrase can be used to confirm information, express agreement, or to seek agreement from others. It can also be used rhetorically as a way to emphasize a point or to express surprise or disbelief.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Evil is like that, isn't that so?

The New Yorker

Oh, God, isn't that so sad?

The New Yorker

Game Center still isn't that, so Zynga's "instant community" plans will be intriguing to watch in 2013.

The Guardian - Tech

But your sense of Bush and what he is doing to America has certainly weighed on your spirits and infiltrated your work during these last seven years, isn't that so?

The New Yorker

I am the very spirit of reasonableness: "I am a customer of Thames Water, isn't that so?" A reluctant, "Yeers... " "I have phoned you to ask for help?" "Errr, well, yes" "Are you telling me you cannot give it?" "That's right.

The Guardian

Now I see, you love Muslims but you hate the Sunnis, isn't that so?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

THEM: Say, isn't that So-and-so?

Science Magazine

It is not that, so much, residents said.

The New York Times

Wasn't that so boring?

The Guardian - Tech

The problem is not that so many Americans don't pay taxes.

The New York Times

"This so isn't that".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "isn't that so" in written form, ensure your tone matches the conversational nature of the phrase. It can come across as odd or forced in very formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid overusing tag questions like "isn't that so" in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more direct statements and evidence-based arguments to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "isn't that so" functions primarily as a tag question, used to seek confirmation or agreement from the listener or reader. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts to invite participation and validate shared understanding. It converts a statement into a question, prompting a response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "isn't that so" is a common tag question used to seek agreement or confirmation, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, especially informal conversation, although it can be present in formal texts as well. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal writing. Consider using more direct phrases for a professional tone. Ludwig's examples show that this phrase has an informal and versatile nature to encourage engagement by the listener.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is that right

Replaces "isn't that so" with a more direct request for confirmation.

is that correct

Similar to "is that right", but emphasizes accuracy.

right

A shorter, more informal way to seek agreement.

correct

Similar to "right", but slightly more formal.

agreed

Indicates seeking agreement or confirmation.

wouldn't you say

Invites the listener to share the same opinion.

don't you think

Similar to "wouldn't you say", but perhaps a gentler suggestion.

am I right

Focuses the confirmation on the speaker's perspective.

or what

An informal way to add emphasis and seek agreement.

yeah

A very informal and brief way to seek agreement, especially common in casual speech.

FAQs

How can I use "isn't that so" in a sentence?

Use "isn't that so" at the end of a statement to turn it into a question, seeking confirmation or agreement. For example, "The weather is beautiful today, "isn't that so"?"

What are some alternatives to "isn't that so"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "is that right", "correct?", or "agreed?".

Is "isn't that so" formal or informal?

"Isn't that so" is generally considered informal. It's best suited for casual conversations and less formal writing. Formal settings may require more direct and less conversational phrasing.

What does "isn't that so" imply?

"Isn't that so" implies that the speaker believes the statement is true and is seeking confirmation or agreement from the listener. It can also be used rhetorically to emphasize a point.