What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
so
Example
She studied hard, so she passed the exam. [so: conjunction]
Example
I'm feeling tired, so I think I'll go to bed early tonight. [so: adverb]
Example
A: It's raining outside. B: So it is. [so: interjection]
accordingly
Example
The company has decided to reduce its workforce, and accordingly, some employees will be laid off. [accordingly: adverb]
Example
The weather forecast predicts heavy rain, and accordingly, we should bring umbrellas. [accordingly: adverb]
Example
The judge ruled that the defendant was guilty, and the sentence was handed down accordingly. [accordingly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
So is more common than accordingly in everyday language and is used in a variety of contexts. Accordingly is more formal and is often used in professional or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between so and accordingly?
Accordingly is more formal than so and is typically used in professional or academic writing. So can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
