The words so, such, and too are often confused by English learners because they all express emphasis or intensity. However, they follow different grammatical patterns and are used in distinct ways. Let’s break it down with examples and explanations.
1. SO
So is used with adjectives and adverbs to indicate a high degree, often followed by a that clause to explain the result.
Pattern
- so + adjective/adverb + that clause
Examples
- These boxes are so heavy that we can’t lift them.
- He ran so quickly that nobody could catch him.
So can also be used with many or much to emphasize quantity:
- so many + plural noun + that clause
- so much + uncountable noun + that clause
Examples
- There were so many people in the auditorium that we could barely get in the front door.
- She drank so much coffee that she couldn’t sleep all night.
2. SUCH
Such is used to emphasize a noun or noun phrase. It is typically followed by an adjective + noun and often connects to a that clause to show the outcome.
Pattern
- such + adjective + noun phrase + that clause
Examples
- It was such a pretty view that he took a photograph.
- They were such good friends that they couldn’t stop talking.
3. TOO
Too expresses an excessive degree and is typically followed by an adjective + infinitive to explain why something cannot or should not happen.
Pattern
- too + adjective + infinitive
Examples
- It’s too cold to go swimming today.
- She’s too tired to finish her homework.
Common Mistakes with SO, SUCH, TOO, and AS
English learners sometimes confuse these words, especially so and as. Let’s look at some common errors:
Incorrect: Jane did so well as I did on the economics exam.
- Correct: Jane did as well as I did on the economics exam.
- Why?: Use as in comparisons to show equality (as + adjective/adverb + as).
Incorrect: The coffee was as hot that I couldn’t drink it.
- Correct: The coffee was so hot that I couldn’t drink it.
- Why?: Use so to indicate intensity followed by a result (so + adjective + that clause).
Quick Summary
| Word | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| So | so + adjective/adverb + that clause | She was so tired that she fell asleep instantly. |
| so + many/much + noun + that clause | He has so much work that he can’t take a break. | |
| Such | such + adjective + noun + that clause | It was such a boring movie that we left halfway through. |
| Too | too + adjective + infinitive | The bag is too heavy to carry alone. |
By mastering these words and their patterns, you can use them correctly and make your English sound more natural and precise. Remember to practice with examples to solidify your understanding!