so that it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so that it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a clause that explains the purpose of an earlier action or statement. For example: "She worked hard to save money, so that it could be used to buy a new car."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So that it hits the tree anyway.

The New York Times

So that it opens your imagination.

The New Yorker

So that it isn't one-sided?

Stanford University

Watch closely so that it doesn't burn.

The New York Times - Health

So that, it would seem, is that.

The Washington Post

"So that it makes a change.

The New York Times - Arts

Transform the quiz so that it is multiple-choice.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So that, it our duty to control the pollution.

Columbia University

How can we foster empathy so that it builds reciprocity?

Stanford University

so that it exits if the main app exits.

University of California, Berkeley

You're running it long enough, so that it achieves stationarity.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so that it", ensure the clause following it clearly explains the purpose or intended result of the preceding action. For example: 'Adjust the settings carefully so that it aligns perfectly with the requirements.'

Common error

Ensure that the pronoun 'it' has a clear and unambiguous referent in the sentence. Otherwise, the sentence may become confusing. For example, instead of saying 'The device needs an update so that it works,' specify what 'it' refers to: 'The device needs an update so that the software works.'

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so that it" functions as a subordinating conjunction introducing a clause of purpose or result. It clarifies the reason behind an action, as seen in Ludwig examples, where data is digitized "so that it is usable". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

Science

23%

News & Media

18%

Less common in

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "so that it" is a versatile phrase used to express purpose or intended result, functioning as a subordinating conjunction. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts including Wiki, Science, and News & Media. To enhance clarity, always ensure that the pronoun "it" has a clear referent to avoid ambiguity. While appropriate for general use, more formal alternatives exist for specific writing scenarios. Remember to use "so that it" to clearly link actions with their intended outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in order that it

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative to express purpose.

such that it

Emphasizes the result or consequence of an action.

in such a way that it

Describes the manner in which something is done to achieve a certain result.

to ensure that it

Highlights the act of making something certain.

with the result that it

Highlights the outcome or effect of a preceding action.

with the aim that it

Similar to 'with the intention that it,' but slightly less formal.

to the end that it

A very formal and literary way to express purpose.

so as to make it

Focuses on achieving a specific outcome or condition.

with the intention that it

Emphasizes the deliberate planning behind an action.

for the purpose of it

Directly states the intention or aim of an action.

FAQs

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

Use "so that it" to introduce a clause explaining the purpose or result of an action. For example: "She saved money "so that it" could be used for a down payment on a house."

What phrases are similar to "so that it"?

Similar phrases include "in order that it", "such that it", or "with the result that it", each with slightly different connotations.

Is "so that it" formal or informal?

"So that it" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in various contexts, although more formal alternatives like "in order that it" might be preferred in very formal writing.

What should I avoid when using "so that it"?

Ensure that the pronoun "it" has a clear and unambiguous antecedent. Without a clear referent, the sentence can become confusing. Also, avoid overuse, as it can make your writing sound repetitive.