insofar
to the extent that
In more detail
to the extent that; as much as
Examples
- The new policy is fair insofar as it treats everyone equally.
- She was successful insofar as she achieved her main goals.
How to use insofar
Insofar is a conjunction used to introduce a condition or limitation, indicating the extent to which something is true or applies. It is more formal and slightly archaic in tone, appearing frequently in legal, academic, and formal writing. It differs from similar expressions by more explicitly marking a boundary or scope of applicability.
Common phrases
- insofar as it is
- insofar as possible
- insofar as I know
- insofar as they concern
- insofar as this applies
Synonyms
to the extent that · in so far as · inasmuch as · as far as · to the degree that
A common mistake
Learners sometimes write 'in so far' as two or three words (in so far), though the single-word 'insofar' is now standard in modern English.
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