so we could

USAGE SUMMARY

"so we could" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used when referring to a potential future event that depends on an earlier action having taken place. For example: "We stayed up late studying for the exam, so we could get a good grade."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

SO we could wait.

The New York Times

We honor those who walked so we could run.

The Guardian

Mr. Lee wheeled his bed over so we could talk.

The New York Times - Arts

So, we could not explain the distribution of samples.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

And by doing so we could save so many lives.

Huffington Post

So, we could not control for them.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

In doing so, we could have created a selection bias.

British Journal of Cancer

So we could have a virtuous circle.

Independent

So we could use some help.

The New Yorker

It's the weekend so we could come.

Independent

"We did it so we could win".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so we could", ensure the clause following it clearly states the intended purpose or outcome of the action described in the first clause.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring the subject of the clause following "so we could" is clearly defined and matches the intended actors. For example, clarify who 'we' refers to if there's any chance of misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so we could" functions as a subordinating conjunction to introduce a clause of purpose. It connects an action with its intended result. Ludwig examples confirm its role in expressing intent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "so we could" is a versatile construction used to express purpose or intent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across diverse contexts. As a purpose connector, it links actions to their intended outcomes, fostering clarity in communication. While "so we could" exhibits a neutral register, fitting seamlessly into both formal and informal settings, alternative phrases like "in order for us to" may be favored in highly formal writing. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media and Science, highlighting its relevance in both reporting and research. Remember to clearly define the subject of the clause following "so we could" to avoid ambiguity and maintain precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in order for us to

Replaces "so we could" with a more formal structure indicating purpose.

so that we are able to

Highlights the ability resulting from the action.

to enable us to

Emphasizes the enabling aspect of the action.

for us to be able to

A more verbose but explicit way to state the purpose.

so as to allow us to

Emphasizes the allowance or permission aspect.

that we might

A more literary or archaic way of expressing purpose.

for the purpose of

A formal expression emphasizing the reason for an action.

with the aim of

Focuses on the intended outcome.

thus enabling us to

Indicates a direct consequence.

in that way we could

Highlights the manner or method.

FAQs

How can I use "so we could" in a sentence?

Use "so we could" to connect a cause and its intended effect, as in, "We saved money "so we could" go on vacation".

What are some alternatives to "so we could"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "so we could" with phrases like "in order for us to", "to enable us to", or "that we might".

Is there a difference between "so we could" and "so that we could"?

While both phrases express purpose, "so that we could" is often considered more formal and explicit, while "so we could" is a more common and concise alternative. There's very little functional difference, choose based on the desired formality.

When is it inappropriate to use "so we could"?

It's generally appropriate in most contexts, but in extremely formal writing, consider using a more elaborate phrase like "for the purpose of" for added clarity and sophistication.