so far only

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so far only" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to refer to the current quantity or level of something, in comparison with the possibility of a larger amount or level in the future. For example: "We have completed the project so far only a quarter of the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So far, only two buyers have looked.

The New York Times

So far only seven have done so.

The New York Times

So far, only investigators know the results.

The New York Times - Health

So far, only the Republicans have.

The New York Times

So far, only one has been produced.

The New York Times

So far, only 80km have been built.

The Economist

So far, only two have.

The New York Times

So far, only polymeric absorbable scaffolds are commercially available.

The Lancet

However, such experiments have been so far only interpreted qualitatively.

Journal of Molecular Biology

So far, only 20 cases have been reported.

Journal of Pediatric Surgery

So far, only a few ligands are in clinical trials.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "so far only" with specific numbers or quantities to provide a concrete understanding of the limitation. For example, "So far only 10% of the project has been completed" is more impactful than just saying "So far only a small portion has been completed."

Common error

Avoid using "so far only" when the limitation is likely to be permanent. This phrase implies a possibility of growth or increase, so it's not appropriate when discussing fixed situations. For instance, don't say "So far only the initial design was approved" if there's no chance of further modifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so far only" functions as an adverbial modifier, limiting the scope or extent of a statement to the present time. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status. It indicates that the situation described is current and may change in the future.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

34%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "so far only" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to express a current limitation with the expectation of future change. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context implies a possibility of future growth or improvement. While "so far only" is acceptable in both formal and informal writing, more formal alternatives are also available for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Only to this point

Emphasizes the temporal boundary of the limitation; more formal.

Up until now, just

Highlights the duration leading to the present, adding a sense of recency.

As of now, merely

Focuses on the present situation, suggesting simplicity or insignificance.

To date, simply

Emphasizes the accumulated time, conveying a straightforward status.

Thus far, solely

A more formal alternative, stressing exclusivity.

No more than this yet

Highlights the insufficiency of the current amount or progress.

For now, just this much

Implies a temporary state with the possibility of future increase.

Currently, just a few

Highlights the current state and small quantity

Up to the present, exclusively

Emphasizes the period leading to now and a sense of exclusivity

At this stage, singularly

Highlights the current phase with a nuance of uniqueness

FAQs

How can I use "so far only" in a sentence?

Use "so far only" to indicate a current limitation with the expectation of future change or increase. For example, "So far only preliminary results are available, but more data is expected soon".

What are some alternatives to "so far only"?

Alternatives include phrases like "only to this point", "up until now, just", or "as of now, merely" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify the amount when using "so far only"?

While not always necessary, specifying the quantity or percentage can make your statement more impactful and clear. For instance, "So far only 30% of the target has been reached" is more informative than simply saying "So far only a little progress has been made".

Can "so far only" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "so far only" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. More formal alternatives like "thus far, solely" or "to date, simply" might be preferred in certain contexts.