What does “So on and so forth” mean?
"So on and so forth" means continuing in the same way or manner.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He kept rambling on about his day, talking about this and that, so on and so forth.
Example
The instructions were clear: wash, rinse, repeat, so on and so forth.
Example
She listed off all the chores that needed to be done: vacuum, dust, mop, so on and so forth
Is “So on and so forth” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“So on and so forth” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “So on and so forth” effectively in context?
You can use "So on and so forth" to indicate that a list or series of items or actions continues in the same way or manner. It is often used to avoid listing out every single item or action, especially when they are repetitive or well-known. For example, if someone is describing their daily routine, they might say, 'I wake up, brush my teeth, get dressed, and "so on and so forth".'
- 1Conversation
He kept rambling on about his day, talking about this and that, so on and so forth.
- 2Instructions
The instructions were clear: wash, rinse, repeat, so on and so forth.
- 3Task List
She listed off all the chores that needed to be done: vacuum, dust, mop, so on and so forth.
Similar phrases to “So on and so forth”:
Abbreviation for 'et cetera,' meaning 'and other similar things'
Example
The store sells various fruits: apples, oranges, bananas, etcetera.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “So on and so forth” come from?
The origin of the phrase "So on and so forth" is unknown.
Is “So on and so forth” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "So on and so forth" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to save time and avoid repetition when listing items or actions.
What tone does “So on and so forth” have?
"So on and so forth" conveys a neutral tone. It is a practical expression used to streamline communication and avoid unnecessary repetition.
Can “So on and so forth” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "So on and so forth" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that is commonly used in various contexts, such as casual conversations, presentations, or written documents.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She listed off all the tasks: clean the kitchen, do the laundry, "so on and so forth".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"So on and so forth"' to imply the continuation of a list or series.
