"To this extent" is an adverbial expression that signifies a specific degree, limit, or scope that has been previously mentioned or is implied in the context. It indicates the degree, frequency, manner, time, extent, or approximation to which something is valid or applicable.
This expression typically modifies the verb, adjective, or the whole clause within a sentence. It clarifies the range or boundary of the statement being made.
The register of "to this extent" is generally considered neutral to formal. While it can be used in spoken English, it is more commonly found in written and academic contexts due to its precise and somewhat elevated tone.
"To this extent" can appear in initial, mid, or final positions in a sentence, although the initial position is the most common and often considered the most natural. When placed at the beginning, it acts as a connector, linking the current statement to a previous one by specifying the degree to which the previous statement applies.
When used, it modifies the clause that follows, setting a boundary or limit on its validity. It emphasizes that the statement holds true only within the specified degree or scope.
Grammatically, "to this extent" can be fronted for emphasis. It is not typically used with negation directly (e.g., "not to this extent"), but it can follow a negative statement. It's rarely used in direct questions; rephrasing is usually more natural.
It sounds unnatural or incorrect to use "to this extent" without a clear reference point – a previously mentioned degree, limit, or situation. Avoid using it when a more straightforward adverbial phrase would suffice, especially in informal settings.
These examples are sourced from to this extent on Ludwig.guru.
"To this extent I am quite worried." — The New York Times
"But it was never used to this extent." — The New York Times - Food
"And to this extent, ghosts are very, very real." — The Guardian - Opinion
"To this extent, the tail is wagging the dog." — The Guardian - Business
"Nothing is what it seems, and mistakes are inevitable when boundaries are pushed to this extent." — The Guardian - Books
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/to+this+extent
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| to a degree | Similar meaning, but often implies a smaller or less significant extent. |
| so far | Indicates a limit in time or progress. |
| to such an extent | Emphasizes the surprising or remarkable nature of the degree. |
| up to this point | Focuses on the limit reached in a process or development. |
| in this regard | Highlights a specific aspect or feature being considered. |
| this much | A more informal and direct way to express the same idea. |
| within these limits | Emphasizes the defined boundaries or restrictions. |
A common mistake is using "to this extent" when a simpler phrase like "this much" would be more appropriate, leading to an overly formal tone. Another error is placing it awkwardly in the sentence, disrupting the flow. Overusing the phrase can also make writing sound repetitive and stilted. Learners sometimes confuse it with similar phrases like "to some extent" and misuse the demonstrative pronoun, failing to clearly connect it to a previously mentioned degree or limit.
| Expression | Function | Register | Typical Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| to this extent | Indicates the degree or limit to which something is true | Neutral to Formal | Initial (most common), Mid, Final |
While it can be placed in the initial, mid, or final positions, "to this extent" most naturally appears at the beginning of a sentence. This placement allows it to effectively connect the current statement to a previously mentioned degree or limit, clarifying the scope of the new information.
"To this extent" refers to a specific degree or limit that has already been established or implied, using the demonstrative pronoun "this" to refer back to it. In contrast, "to some extent" indicates a general degree without specifying the exact limit, suggesting a partial or limited agreement or validity.
To avoid misuse, ensure that "to this extent" is always linked to a clear reference point – a previously mentioned degree, limit, or situation. If there's no explicit reference, or if you're simply indicating a general degree, use "to some extent" or another appropriate phrase. Be mindful of the formal tone and consider whether a simpler expression would be more suitable in informal contexts.
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