Thus Far vs. So Far — What's the Difference?

"Thus far" is a formal expression used to denote the extent or degree of progress made up to a certain point in time or within a process. It carries a tone of reflection and is often used in formal writings, speeches, or situations where an assessment of progress is being made. "Thus far" implies a measured evaluation of progress or achievements, suggesting a deliberate consideration of what has been accomplished.

"So far," in contrast, is a more casual and commonly used phrase that refers to the progress, achievements, or experiences gained over a period up to the present moment. It is versatile, fitting into everyday conversation, informal writing, and less formal contexts. "So far" suggests a temporal progression but with a less formal assessment of what has been achieved or experienced.

While both phrases indicate a progression to a current point, "thus far" is typically used in contexts requiring a more formal tone or when the speaker wishes to emphasize the significance of the progress or status achieved. "So far" is used more broadly and can refer to anything from personal experiences to the progress of work or projects, often without the formal tone implied by "thus far."

The choice between "thus far" and "so far" depends on the context and the level of formality desired by the speaker or writer. In academic or professional settings, "thus far" might be preferred to convey a sense of seriousness or reflection. In contrast, "so far" is suitable for casual discussions or when conveying information in a more relaxed manner.

"Thus far" can serve to underscore the importance of the progress or findings being discussed, especially in research, analysis, or when summarizing the stages of a project. "So far," however, tends to relate more to preliminary observations or general assessments without the depth of analysis or formality that "thus far" might suggest.