insofar

American  

[in-suh-fahr, -soh-] / ˌɪn səˈfɑr, -soʊ- /

adverb

1. to such an extent (usually followed byas ).

   I will do the work insofar as I am able.

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Etymology

Origin of insofar

First recorded in 1590–1600; originally phrase in so far

Explanation

Use insofar to mean "as much" or "to the extent." You might, for example, say, "I will get my math homework done insofar as I can. The adverb insofar is somewhat old fashioned and uncommon these days, but it's a good way to talk about doing something to a certain degree or extent. You might accuse your boss of treating her employees well only insofar that it improves her business, or decide that math is only interesting to you insofar as it seems useful in daily life. The British form of insofar is in so far.

Example Sentences

But they should be considered a nonzero recessionary risk, insofar as sector-specific shocks have been historical contributors.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

When I took their pictures, they hadn't been to Hamburg, insofar as I knew...

From BBC • Dec. 27, 2025

Or should we instead focus on human capital, addressing cultural issues only insofar as they get in the way?

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

She argues that the framers’ intentions, insofar as we can pin them down, can’t account for where we are now: “God” and “slavery” and “woman” are not mentioned in the original document.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2025

At least insofar as his wardrobe was con-cerned.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

Related Words

• inasmuch as