Word
thus far
Definition
fixed phrase. until now or up to this point in time.
fixed phrase. an adverbial phrase indicating the duration or extent of a situation from the past up to the present moment.
Examples
“We have received three applications thus far.”
“The project has been successful thus far, but we expect some challenges in the final phase.”
“While the experimental data remains consistent thus far, further longitudinal studies are required to validate the initial hypothesis.”
Examples
simple
“We have received three applications thus far.”
contextual
“The project has been successful thus far, but we expect some challenges in the final phase.”
complex
“While the experimental data remains consistent thus far, further longitudinal studies are required to validate the initial hypothesis.”
Usage
more formal than 'so far' and often appears in written reports or professional updates.
Teaching tip
teach as a formal synonym for 'so far'; it is frequently used with the present perfect tense because it links the past to the present.
Pitfall
I didn't see him thus far.
I haven't seen him thus far.
because the phrase connects the past to the present, it usually requires the present perfect tense rather than the past simple.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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