so far so good

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "So far so good" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase when something is going well and you want to express that it is progressing well. For example: "We've been working on this project for three weeks now, and so far so good!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"So far, so good".

The New York Times - Books

So, so far so good.

Independent

So it's so far, so good".

Independent

SO far so good.

The New York Times - Arts

So far so good.

Duke University

"But so far, so good".

The New York Times

Well, so far, so good.

Forbes

So far so good, right?

The Guardian

And so far, so good.

The New York Times

So, so far, so good," Cordes says.

Science Magazine

So far, so good, Guggenheim.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so far so good", follow it with a statement about future plans or potential challenges to provide context and avoid complacency.

Common error

While "so far so good" is versatile, avoid overusing it in highly formal or professional writing. In such cases, opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "progress has been satisfactory to date" or "the initial results are promising" to maintain a professional tone.

How to use

Learn how to use "so far so good" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so far so good" serves as an idiomatic expression used to convey that a situation or activity has been progressing satisfactorily up to the current moment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting its function in expressing that something is going well.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "so far so good" is a commonly used idiomatic expression indicating that a situation is progressing well up to the present moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, although it's more frequently found in news media and informal settings. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the level of formality required and to avoid overuse, especially in professional or academic writing. Alternatives like "things are looking promising" or "progress has been satisfactory" may be more appropriate in formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Things are looking promising

Emphasizes the positive outlook and potential for continued success. The focus is more on the future possibilities.

It's been a promising start

Highlights the positive nature of the initial phase. It refers more to the beginning of an event or process.

We're off to a good start

Indicates a positive beginning and momentum in the right direction. It focuses on the initiation of a task or project.

The beginning has been successful

Highlights the accomplishments in the early stages. It is more focused on realized success.

Up to this point, everything is fine

Expresses satisfaction with the current state, but with a hint of caution. It's more literal and less idiomatic.

Everything is proceeding according to plan

Highlights adherence to a planned process. It is more formal and structured.

The situation is currently under control

Emphasizes a state of managed stability. It's more focused on the management aspect.

As of now, we're in a good position

Indicates a favorable standing at the present time. The emphasis is on the advantage gained.

At the moment, things are progressing well

Highlights the forward movement and positive development of events. It's a more descriptive alternative.

Thus far, things are unfolding positively

Highlights the ongoing positive development. The alternative is slightly more formal.

FAQs

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

You can use "so far so good" to indicate that a situation or project has been progressing well up to the present moment. For example, "The new marketing campaign has generated a lot of buzz, "so far so good"!"

What's the difference between "so far so good" and "everything is going well"?

"So far so good" implies a cautious optimism, acknowledging that future challenges may arise, whereas "everything is going well" suggests a more confident and potentially less nuanced assessment of the current situation.

What are some alternatives to "so far so good"?

You can use alternatives like "things are looking promising", "it's been a promising start", or "we're off to a good start" depending on the context.

Is "so far so good" appropriate for formal writing?

While "so far so good" is widely understood, it may be more suitable for informal or semi-formal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "progress has been satisfactory" or "the initial results are promising".