Thus far or So far: Which Is Correct?

Updated 2026-10-03 · Which One Is Correct editorial team

Quick answer: Both thus far and so far are correct English phrases meaning up to this point. They are largely interchangeable in everyday conversation, though thus far carries a slightly more formal tone. Choose based on your audience.

The Short Answer

Both forms are standard and correct, meaning you can use either one without error. The choice depends mostly on the level of formality required by your specific context.

People often confuse them because they serve the exact same function in a sentence. The difference lies only in register, with thus far sounding more literary and so far feeling more casual.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Form	Status	Use it when
so far	Correct	Writing for general audiences, emails, or spoken dialogue where a natural, conversational tone is preferred.
thus far	Correct	Drafting academic papers, legal documents, or formal reports where a refined, slightly archaic tone is appropriate.
Adverbial phrase	Shared	Placing the phrase at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence to indicate progress up to the present moment.

Correct Example Sentences

So far, the new marketing strategy has increased our website traffic by twenty percent.
We have not encountered any major issues with the software update thus far.
The project is running smoothly so far, but we must stay vigilant during the final phase.
Thus far, the archaeological team has uncovered several ancient artifacts in this region.
So far, I have only read the first chapter of the novel, but it looks promising.
The stock market has remained stable thus far despite the recent economic uncertainty.
So far, the weather has been perfect for our outdoor wedding ceremony this weekend.
Thus far, the committee has received only three proposals for the new community center.
We have so far failed to find a suitable replacement for the retired manager.
The race is neck and neck thus far, with no clear leader emerging in the final lap.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

So far now, the results are inconclusive.: So far, the results are inconclusive.
Thus farly, we have met all our goals.: Thus far, we have met all our goals.
We have thus far not received a response.: We have not received a response thus far.
So far as I know, the meeting is cancelled.: As far as I know, the meeting is cancelled.
The progress thus far is disappointing.: The progress so far is disappointing.
So far, I have not seen anything like this.: So far, I have not seen anything like this.

A Quick Test You Can Use

Read your sentence aloud. If it sounds like part of a formal report or historical narrative, choose thus far. If it sounds like a conversation with a colleague or friend, choose so far. The meaning remains identical, so let the desired tone guide your selection.

Related Word Pairs

A lot vs. Alot: A lot is two words; alot is never correct in standard English.
Effect vs. Affect: Effect is usually a noun; affect is usually a verb.
Then vs. Than: Use then for time sequences and than for comparisons.
Its vs. It's: Its shows possession; it's is a contraction for it is.
Lose vs. Loose: Lose means to misplace; loose means not tight.

More Example Sentences

Thus far, the investigation has yielded no conclusive evidence.
We have so far managed to secure funding for the entire fiscal year.
The renovation is proceeding well thus far, with only minor delays.
So far, no one has volunteered to lead the subcommittee.
Thus far, the new policy has reduced waste by a noticeable margin.
I have so far completed three chapters of the assigned reading.
Thus far, the team has avoided any costly mistakes.
So far, customer feedback regarding the update has been overwhelmingly positive.
We have thus far exhausted all viable options for resolution.
So far, the drought has not significantly impacted local agriculture.

Quick Practice

The experiment has been successful .

thus far

We have failed to locate the missing files.

so far

, the negotiations are stalled.

So far

The candidate has performed admirably .

thus far

I have only tried two recipes from the book.

so far

The project remains on schedule .

thus far

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use thus far in casual conversation?

Yes, but it may sound stiff or overly formal. Most native speakers prefer so far when chatting with friends or family to keep the tone natural and relaxed.

Is thus far old-fashioned?

It is slightly more traditional than so far. You will see it more often in literature and formal writing than in modern business emails or social media posts.

Do these phrases mean the same thing?

Yes, both phrases indicate the period from the past up to the present moment. They are synonyms that can usually be swapped without changing the core meaning of your sentence.

Which one is better for resumes?

Use so far for most resume bullet points to keep them concise and direct. However, thus far is acceptable if you are writing a formal cover letter or a detailed professional summary.