thus and so: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Thus and so is a commonly used idiom in the English language, indicating that something is said or done in a particular way. Its origin is uncertain, but it has been used for many years with a consistent meaning and usage. One possible origin of the idiom is from Middle English, where "thus" meant "in this way" and "so" meant "in the manner or way indicated." Combining the two would convey the meaning of "in this way and in the way indicated." We can see this usage in Middle English texts like the Wycliffe Bible and Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.

Another possible origin of the idiom is from Latin, where the word "sic" was used to show that a quotation or text was reproduced exactly as it appeared in the original. This Latin usage still exists in academic writing today, where "sic" is used to indicate mistakes or unconventional spellings in the original text. It is possible that the idiom "thus and so" evolved from this Latin usage, with "thus" taking on a similar meaning to "sic," indicating that something is done exactly as described.

The idiom "thus and so" is used in various contexts to indicate a specific manner or way of doing or saying something. For example, someone might say, "He explained the process thus and so," meaning that he described the process in a specific way. The idiom can also convey that something is done or said in a predictable or expected manner. For instance, someone might say, "She always responds to criticism thus and so," meaning that she consistently responds to criticism in a specific way.

Throughout the years, the idiom "thus and so" has remained a significant part of the English language. While we may not know its exact origin and evolution, its usage continues to provide depth and richness to our communication. Whether it originated from Middle English or Latin, the idiom effectively conveys the idea of doing or saying something in a particular manner or way. Its presence in everyday language reflects its enduring significance and relevance.

"thus and such" is a related idiom that is used in conjunction with "thus and so." It is commonly employed to emphasize a specific example or instance. For example, someone might say, "We examined the results, thus and such examples were taken into consideration." By using "thus and such," the speaker is emphasizing that the examples mentioned are representative of the larger set being discussed.

The idiom "that way" is another related phrase that can be used interchangeably with "thus and so." It is often employed to talk about a desire or preference for something to happen in a certain manner. For example, someone might say, "I hope things will work out that way," expressing their wish for things to happen in a particular way or manner.

"with the manner" is a related idiom that can also be used in conjunction with "thus and so." It is typically used to describe the specific way in which something is done or said. For instance, someone might say, "He spoke with the manner of a seasoned professional," indicating that the person spoke in a manner that conveyed experience and expertise.

The idiom "so there" is another related phrase that can be used in a similar way as "thus and so." It is often used to conclude or emphasize a statement or argument. For example, someone might say, "I have provided all the necessary evidence, so there." By using "so there," the speaker is emphasizing that they have presented all the required evidence and consider their point to be valid and conclusive.

The idiom "thus and so" is commonly used in the English language to indicate that something is said or done in a particular manner or way. Its origin may be uncertain, but it has been used for many years with a consistent meaning and usage. Whether it evolved from Middle English or Latin, the idiom effectively conveys the idea of doing or saying something in a specific way. Related idioms like "thus and such," "that way," "with the manner," and "so there" further expand the ways in which this idiom can be used and understood. Overall, the idiom "thus and so" enriches our language and adds nuance to our communication.