it is so that

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is so that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce the reason behind something, often introducing a clause that follows. For example: "I have decided to take a break from my studies; it is so that I can gain a better perspective on my future path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It's what it is, so that's what you have to deal with," Hernández said.

The New York Times - Sports

And I was like, "There it is!" So that ended up happening by finding a cake that was an inspiration and seeing the structure and figuring out how to turn it into art.

Huffington Post

It is so huge that the mind cannot retain its image; one remembers it as smaller than it is, so that every time one returns to it, one is astounded by its size".

The Guardian - Travel

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

The Economist

When you paint a picture, it is so that people look at it and like it.

The Guardian - Sport

Just see what it is so that you realise that it's not this mystical thing, that it's not super-complicated.

The Guardian - Tech

They say it is so that other individuals without solar do not have to pay extra to keep the grid maintained.

University of California, Berkeley

But even if San Diego is not, the Jets might as well convince themselves that it is, so that a victory would represent a tremendous achievement.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's so that we can respond to unexpected circumstances.

The New York Times

Instead, it's so that I can be more like her.

The New York Times

It was so that they would have no fear.

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is so that" to clearly introduce a clause explaining the reason or purpose behind a statement. This can enhance clarity and provide a direct link between cause and effect.

Common error

Avoid using "it is so that" excessively in casual writing or conversation. Simpler alternatives like "so that" or "in order to" often sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is so that" functions as a purpose clause marker, introducing a subordinate clause that explains the reason or intention behind the main clause. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces the reason behind something, often followed by a clause.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is so that" serves as a purpose connector, explicitly stating the intention or reason behind an action or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English, often introducing a subsequent clause. While grammatically sound, it's relatively rare and more suited to contexts where clarity and explicitness are key. Simpler alternatives like "so that" might be preferable in less formal scenarios. Its usage spans news media, academia, and general reference, making it a versatile tool for expressing purpose with reasonable formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so that

Shorter and more common alternative, directly expressing purpose.

so as to

More concise alternative expressing purpose or intention.

in order that

Formal alternative emphasizing intention or purpose.

for the purpose of

Emphasizes the specific reason or intent behind an action.

with the aim of

Highlights the goal or objective behind an action.

with the intention of

Focuses on the planned or intended result of an action.

to ensure that

Highlights the intent to guarantee a specific outcome.

to the end that

Formal and somewhat archaic, indicating a desired outcome.

such that

Indicates a result or consequence.

in that way

Focuses on describing the manner or method by which a result is achieved.

FAQs

What is the function of "it is so that" in a sentence?

The phrase "it is so that" introduces a clause that explains the reason or purpose behind a statement, similar to "so that" or "in order that".

Is "it is so that" interchangeable with "because"?

While both can indicate reason, "it is so that" is generally used to express purpose or intention, whereas "because" simply indicates causation. You can replace it with alternatives like "in order that".

Can I use "it is so that" in formal writing?

Yes, "it is so that" can be used in formal writing to clearly state the intention or purpose behind an action or decision. It is a more emphatic way to say "so that".

What are some alternatives to "it is so that" for more concise writing?

Consider using shorter alternatives such as "so that", "in order to", or "to", especially in less formal contexts.