so as not to distort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so as not to distort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining the intention to avoid altering or misrepresenting something. Example: "The data was presented in its original form so as not to distort the findings of the research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

R.B.S., in which the British government took an 84.4 percent stake, is under orders from the European Commission to sell certain assets, including R.B.S. Sempra, so as not to distort competition while receiving state support.

The New York Times

There will be dozens of selection and fitting rooms, all outfitted with intricate lighting and lead-free mirrors so as not to distort the white, ecru and Champagne hues in the gowns, Mr. Rothstein said.

The New York Times

All survival data was censored to 10 years so as not to distort the data due to different study lengths.

BMC Cancer

These gain control processes must operate rapidly to keep up with the ever-changing input signals, but must also operate accurately so as not to distort the inputs.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

As well as being simple and seeking not to distort the economy, taxation should be fair.

The Economist

Stuff in as much as the shoe will fit, but be careful not to distort the shoe shape when using this method; if the shoe appears distorted, remove newspaper and re-stuff until the shoe shape looks right.

WikiHow

Distances are preserved in order not to distort the bones.

Acta Orthopaedica

So as not to kill people.

The New Yorker

So as not to have regrets.

The New Yorker

Check frequently so as not to overcook.

WikiHow

FTC guidelines clearly state the endorsement may not be "reworded so as to distort in any way the endorser's opinion or experience with the product".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so as not to distort", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are trying to keep accurate or unaltered. This phrase is best used when precision and fidelity are important.

Common error

Avoid using "so as not to distort" in overly casual or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "to avoid distorting" or "to keep accurate" may be more appropriate for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so as not to distort" functions as an adverbial phrase of purpose. It modifies a verb by explaining the reason or intention behind an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to clarify the aim of preventing misrepresentation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33.33%

Science

33.33%

Wiki

16.67%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "so as not to distort" is a grammatically correct and useful expression for indicating the purpose of avoiding misrepresentation or alteration. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's best employed in contexts where accuracy and precision are paramount. While versatile, it's more suited for neutral to formal writing than casual communication. The phrase appears across various domains including News & Media, Science and Wiki sources. Consider alternatives like "in order to avoid distortion" or "to prevent distortion" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in order to avoid distortion

Replaces "so as" with "in order", creating a slightly more formal tone but maintaining the same meaning and purpose.

to prevent distortion

Simplifies the phrase by using "to prevent" instead of "so as not to", making it more concise.

to avoid misrepresentation

Focuses on the action of misrepresenting rather than distorting, slightly shifting the emphasis but keeping the core intention.

in order to preclude distortion

Uses "preclude" which is a more formal synonym for prevent. This version will result more formal than "so as not to distort".

for the sake of accuracy

Shifts the focus to promoting accuracy instead of preventing distortion, providing a positive spin.

to maintain accuracy

Focuses on preserving the existing accuracy. It is subtly different from avoiding distortion.

lest it distort

Uses "lest" to introduce a clause expressing a reason for avoiding something, offering a more literary or archaic tone.

so that it doesn't distort

Rephrases the sentence structure to use "so that" and a negative construction, making it slightly more conversational.

with the aim of not distorting

Introduces a purpose using "with the aim of", providing a slightly more elaborate structure.

to ensure no distortion occurs

Emphasizes the act of ensuring something, rather than simply avoiding it.

FAQs

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

You can use "so as not to distort" to indicate a purpose of avoiding misrepresentation or alteration. For example: "The data was presented in its original form "so as not to distort" the findings of the research."

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

Some alternatives include "in order to avoid distortion", "to prevent distortion", or "to avoid misrepresentation".

Is it better to use "so as not to distort" or "in order to not distort"?

"So as not to distort" is generally preferred over "in order to not distort" because it flows more smoothly and is considered more concise. Both phrases convey the same meaning.

What is the difference between "so as not to distort" and "to maintain accuracy"?

"So as not to distort" implies preventing alteration or misrepresentation, while "to maintain accuracy" focuses on preserving an existing state of correctness. The choice depends on whether you are preventing a change or preserving a current state.