so far: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘so far’ mean?
The idiom so far means up until now or up until a particular point in time. It is used to indicate the extent or progress of something that has happened or been done.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "up to here" means being overwhelmed or fed up with a situation or person. It implies reaching the limit of tolerance or patience.
An idiom meaning an unrealistic or unattainable desire/expectation, often used to convey someone wanting something that is impossible to obtain.
The idiom "that way" is used to refer to a specific direction, manner, or situation. It can indicate a way of doing something, a specific course of action, or a specific outcome. It can also be used to express someone's preference or perspective about a particular matter.
The idiom "that's your lot" means that something has come to an end or there is nothing more to be expected or offered. It can be used to express that there is no more of something or that there is no further opportunity or possibility.
The idiom "that's saying something" is used to highlight a statement that is particularly noteworthy or impressive, often because it exceeds expectations or goes against common assumptions.
The idiom "that's done it" is used to indicate that something has reached a critical or irreversible point, often referring to a negative outcome or consequence. It implies that a particular action or event has brought about a significant change that cannot be undone.
The idiom "that's all she wrote" means that something is finished or ended, often with a negative or disappointing outcome. It suggests that there is nothing else to be said or done about a situation.
An idiom used to emphasize the extreme or exceptional quality of someone or something.
An idiom that refers to the difficulties or setbacks experienced at the initial stages of a new project, process, or endeavor.
Decoding its origins
The idiom "so far so good" is a commonly used expression in everyday English. Its meaning refers to the progress or achievement that has been made up to a certain point in time, and the indication that things are going well. When someone says "so far so good," they are expressing that everything is going smoothly and according to plan.
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Transitional phrases are not needed in articles, as they can be removed to get straight to the point. Paragraphs should be kept 2-3 sentences long to maintain readability. I make use of varied language in each paragraph to avoid repetition and keep the reader engaged. Additionally, I fix grammar, phrasing, and tonal mistakes, and use active voice to make the articles more impactful.
The idiom "as yet" is also related to the concept of "so far." "As yet" is used to indicate that something has not happened or been done up to the present time. It carries a sense of anticipation or the idea that something may occur or change in the future. While "so far so good" implies that things are going well, "as yet" suggests that something is still pending or yet to be determined.
The origins of the idiom "so far" can be traced back to the Middle English period, although its usage has evolved over time. Today, it is commonly used in personal experiences, achievements, and ongoing processes. It serves as a concise and easily understandable way to convey the progress or achievement made up to a certain point.
While the specific etymology of "so far" remains elusive, its exact origins and subsequent development are difficult to pinpoint due to the challenges associated with studying the evolution of idiomatic expressions. However, despite these uncertainties, "so far" continues to be a valuable and relevant expression in contemporary English.
The idiom "so far" has become deeply embedded in the English language and is frequently used by native speakers. Its versatility allows it to be applied in diverse situations, making it an essential part of everyday communication. Whether summarizing the progress made in a project, reflecting on individual accomplishments, or assessing the current state of affairs, "so far" provides a concise and easily understandable way to convey the extent of progress or achievement.
As an experienced editor for HubSpot, I understand the importance of incorporating idiomatic expressions such as "so far" into articles. These expressions add depth and nuance to the language we use, making it more engaging and relatable for readers. When used effectively, idioms like "so far" can enhance the overall readability and impact of an article.
It's important to note that the idiom "so far" is not the only expression related to the concept of measuring progress or achievement up to a certain point. "So far so good" and "as yet" also contribute to this theme. "So far so good" adds a positive and reassuring tone, indicating that things are going well. On the other hand, "as yet" introduces an element of uncertainty or anticipation, suggesting that something is still pending or yet to be determined.
Language is a dynamic and ever-evolving system, and idioms play a crucial role in its development. As language evolves, idiomatic expressions like "so far" continue to shape the way we express ourselves and communicate with others. They add color, depth, and richness to our speech and writing, allowing us to convey complex ideas in a concise and relatable manner.
The idiom "so far" encapsulates the essence of measuring progress or achievement up to a certain point in time. Its figurative meaning extends beyond its literal interpretation, making it a valuable expression in personal, professional, and everyday contexts. Idioms like "so far so good" and "as yet" further enhance this theme, adding positivity and anticipation respectively. Although the specific origins of these idioms may remain unclear, their enduring presence in the English language reflects their significance and usefulness in concise and effective communication.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom so far can be used in a sentence:
- She is the youngest student to ever win the award so far.
- We have completed half of the project so far.
- The weather has been great so far on our vacation.
More "Temporal" idioms
