the extent that

USAGE SUMMARY

"the extent that" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to introduce a comparison or to express the degree or limit of something. For example, "We have experienced a great deal of growth over the past year, to the extent that it is challenging to keep up with demand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But not to the extent that is being made out.

BBC

I've always worked so much to the extent that was required for my job.

Huffington Post

Regardless, China's abilities in space are growing to the extent that is reflected in popular culture.

Huffington Post

To the extent that he has one.

The New York Times - Magazine

To the extent that he knew how to love, anyway.

The New Yorker

"To the extent that there isn't, we'll probably keep it".

The New York Times

Greenwood stutters, to the extent that verbal conversation is difficult.

The New Yorker

Those never materialized to the extent that we had expected.

The New Yorker

You played to the extent that the rules allowed.

The New York Times - Sports

To the extent that it is, argument is inevitable.

The New York Times

To the extent that it is, it's a bore.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the extent that", ensure that the clause following it clearly specifies the degree, limit, or condition you are referring to. This prevents ambiguity and ensures clear communication.

Common error

Avoid using "the extent that" without clearly defining what is being measured or limited. Vague references can confuse readers. For instance, instead of saying "He helped to the extent that he could", specify the actions he took or the limits of his help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the extent that" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a subordinate clause, modifying a verb, adjective, or another clause. It indicates the degree or limit to which something is true or possible. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the extent that" serves as a versatile phrase for expressing degree, condition, or limitation in writing and speech. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, particularly within news, media, and scientific domains. While alternatives like "to the degree that" or "insofar as" exist, understanding the specific nuance you wish to convey will ensure optimal clarity and impact. To avoid ambiguity, remember to clearly define what is being measured or limited following the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the degree that

Emphasizes the degree or level to which something happens or is true; it's a more formal alternative.

to such a degree that

Adds emphasis to the intensity or magnitude being described.

to the point that

Highlights the result or consequence of an action or situation, indicating a limit has been reached.

to the level that

Focuses on a specific level or threshold that is reached.

insofar as

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative that introduces a limitation or qualification.

to the measure that

Similar to "to the degree that" but less common; implies a careful assessment or measurement.

as much as

Implies a comparison or equalization of degree between two things.

within the limits of

Emphasizes restrictions or boundaries within which something is possible or true.

considering that

Introduces a reason or condition that influences a subsequent action or statement.

depending on whether

Indicates that the outcome or extent varies based on a specific condition or factor.

FAQs

How can I use "the extent that" in a sentence?

Use "the extent that" to show a limit or degree to which something is true or happens. For example, "The project succeeded to "the extent that" all goals were met."

What phrases are similar to "the extent that"?

Similar phrases include "to the degree that", "insofar as", and "to the point that", all used to express a limit or degree.

Is it better to use "to the extent that" or "to the degree that"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "To the degree that" might be slightly more formal, but the choice depends on the specific context and desired tone. Some may find /s/to+the+degree+that more fitting than /s/to+the+extent+that in some contexts.

Can "the extent that" be used to introduce a cause?

While primarily used to show degree or limitation, "the extent that" can sometimes imply cause, especially when the degree of something directly leads to a result. However, phrases like "because of" or "due to" are more direct for indicating cause.