it remains so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it remains so" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a situation or condition continues to be the same as previously stated. Example: "Despite the changes in management, it remains so that our core values will not be compromised."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is why, for all its success, it remains so unloved.

The Guardian - Opinion

Except at its very surface, it remains so.

Columbia University

But five years on it remains so patchy that its ability to prevent future massacres is heavily in doubt.

The Guardian

Its mood was triumphalist, and to a large degree it remains so.

The New Yorker

Arguably, it remains so.

Independent

It remains so today.

The New Yorker

"It remains so," Thompson replied.

The Guardian

It remains so to this day.

Yale University

Because it remains so easy to do.

The Guardian

The notion was Pollyannaish then, and it remains so today.

The Washington Post

That's why it remains so vital and so beautiful.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it remains so", ensure that the antecedent (the 'it' refers to) is clear and unambiguous. This prevents confusion and maintains clarity in your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "it remains so" excessively in informal writing or speech, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it's still that way" or "it's still the same" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it remains so" functions as a concise way to affirm that a condition or state described previously continues to exist or be valid. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The 'it' refers back to a specific situation, quality, or state that has been previously mentioned.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

17%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it remains so" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that succinctly affirms the continuation of a previously stated condition or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's perfectly acceptable in written English. Predominantly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, it is considered to have a neutral tone, suitable for professional communication. While it is a functional phrase to indicate consistency and stability, simpler alternatives may be preferable in informal settings. Its widespread use in authoritative sources such as The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Economist, indicates its reliability and acceptance in formal discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it continues to be the case

This alternative phrase is a more formal way of expressing that something is still true or applicable.

it is still the situation

This phrase focuses on the continuation of a specific situation, rather than a general state.

it persists in that manner

This suggests a slightly more forceful or resistant continuation of the original state.

it's unchanged

A more concise and informal way to indicate that something has not changed.

the status quo is maintained

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the preservation of the existing state of affairs.

things are still the same

This alternative offers a more casual way to convey the idea of an unchanged condition.

it holds true

Emphasizes the validity or accuracy of a previous statement or condition.

it's as it was

This alternative suggests that an object, situation or phenomenon is in the same condition as a time in the past.

the situation is unaltered

The usage is more formal and is generally used to describe a situation that has remained the same.

it has not changed

A plain statement conveying that a previously mentioned element or subject is in the same situation or status as before.

FAQs

How can I use "it remains so" in a sentence?

Use "it remains so" to emphasize that a previously stated condition or situation is still in effect. For example: "The policy was effective last year, and "it remains so" today."

What are some alternatives to "it remains so"?

Some alternatives include "it continues to be", "it is still the case", or "it has not changed". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "it remains so" formal or informal?

"It remains so" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "it's still that way" or "things are still the same" might be more appropriate.

Can "it remains so" be used to describe a person's character?

While less common, "it remains so" can be used to describe a continuing aspect of a person's character. For example: "He was always generous, and "it remains so" even after gaining wealth."