so as not to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so as not to be" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express something done to prevent a certain outcome. For example: I set my alarm early so as not to be late for work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I'd chuckle, too, so as not to be left out.

The New Yorker

"We are talking quietly so as not to be heard".

The Guardian

So as not to be misunderstood, we reemphasize four interrelated aspects of our holding.

Harvard University

I just kept moving, strolling and taking evasive action so as not to be swarmed on.

The New Yorker

Perhaps he preferred it that way, so as not to be tied down.

The New Yorker

He closed his eyes so as not to be blinded by the terrible shimmering.

The New Yorker

"My girlfriend and I had to act dead so as not to be shot.

Independent

He requested anonymity so as not to be embroiled in the controversy.

The Washington Post

"We were trying not to expect anything so as not to be disappointed," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Or was I avoiding hope so as not to be disappointed?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

SECRECY IS ABOLISHED Society Acts So as Not to Be Regarded in a Class With Ku Klux Klan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so as not to be", ensure that the phrase clearly indicates the intended purpose of avoiding a specific negative outcome. Clarity is key to effective communication.

Common error

Avoid overusing "so as not to be" in simple sentences where a more direct phrasing would be clearer and more concise. Sometimes, simpler constructions like "to avoid" or "in order to prevent" are more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so as not to be" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose, indicating the reason or intention behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and provides numerous examples of its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

22%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "so as not to be" is a grammatically correct and widely used adverbial phrase that expresses the purpose of avoiding a specific outcome. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and provides ample examples across various contexts. While versatile, it's most frequently found in news, academic, and professional writing, lending a formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure that it clearly indicates the intended purpose and avoid overuse in simple sentences where more direct phrasings would suffice. Alternatives like "in order to avoid" or "to prevent from being" can offer stylistic variations. Considering all the data gathered, using "so as not to be" correctly enhances clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in order to avoid

Focuses directly on the act of avoiding something, rather than the consequence.

to prevent from being

Emphasizes the prevention of a state or condition.

so that one doesn't

Uses a more direct and conversational tone.

lest one should

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative.

for fear of being

Highlights the fear or apprehension associated with the potential outcome.

to keep from

A simpler, more informal way of expressing avoidance.

with the intention of not being

Emphasizes the intention behind the action taken.

to evade the possibility of

Focuses on evading or escaping a potential situation.

so as to preclude

A formal way of saying "to prevent something from happening or being possible".

with a view to avoiding

Highlights considering the outcome and trying to avoid it.

FAQs

How can I use "so as not to be" in a sentence?

The phrase "so as not to be" is used to express the purpose of avoiding a particular outcome. For instance, "I left early "so as not to be" late for the meeting" indicates the reason for leaving early was to avoid being late.

What are some alternatives to "so as not to be"?

Alternatives include "in order to avoid", "to prevent from being", or "for fear of being". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is there a difference between "so as not to be" and "in order not to be"?

While both phrases express a similar purpose, "so as not to be" often carries a slightly more formal tone than "in order not to be". The choice between them is often a matter of stylistic preference.

Can "so as not to be" always be replaced with "to avoid"?

While "to avoid" can often serve as a replacement, "so as not to be" is useful when you need to emphasize the potential state or condition you're trying to prevent, rather than just the action. For example, using "to avoid" in place of ""so as not to be"" in the first FAQ answer may alter the meaning in certain situations.