# is that so

CEFR B1 · Fixed phrase

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/is-that-so
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

a polite way to show you are listening or to express mild surprise at what someone just said.

For teachers: a formulaic response used to acknowledge new information or express polite skepticism; it functions as a back-channeling device in conversation.

## Examples

- "I've decided to move to Spain." "Is that so?"
- The neighbor mentioned that the old house was finally sold, and I replied, "Is that so?" to keep the conversation going.
- Upon hearing the witness's revised testimony, the barrister simply raised an eyebrow and inquired, "Is that so?" with a hint of irony.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Is it so?" but "Is that so?" — the phrase is a fixed idiom using 'that' as the demonstrative pronoun; 'it' is not used in this specific social formula.

## Usage notes

- the meaning changes based on intonation: a rising tone shows genuine interest, while a falling tone can sound skeptical or bored.
- Teaching tip: teach this alongside other active listening responses like 'Really?' or 'Indeed' to help students vary their conversational feedback.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.