So or Such? Exercise 1
level: Intermediate (B1/B2)
So and such both express emphasis or intensity in English, but they attach to different parts of a sentence — and swapping them produces an error that native speakers notice immediately.
Grammar review
So or such?
Both so and such are used to add emphasis, but they work differently depending on what comes next.
SO + adjective or adverb:
Use so when it is followed directly by an adjective or adverb (no noun).
The film was so boring. (adjective)
He drives so recklessly. (adverb)
Why are you so tired?
SUCH + (a/an) + adjective + noun:
Use such when a noun follows (with or without an adjective).
It was such a boring film. (a + adjective + noun)
They are such generous hosts. (adjective + plural noun)
He sings with such passion! (noun only — no adjective needed)
SUCH + uncountable noun (no article):
Such devotion is rare.
I can’t believe he would say such things.
The quick test:
Ask yourself: is a noun coming? If yes → such. If no (just adjective/adverb) → so.
Both so and such are used to add emphasis, but they work differently depending on what comes next.
SO + adjective or adverb:
Use so when it is followed directly by an adjective or adverb (no noun).
The film was so boring. (adjective)
He drives so recklessly. (adverb)
Why are you so tired?
SUCH + (a/an) + adjective + noun:
Use such when a noun follows (with or without an adjective).
It was such a boring film. (a + adjective + noun)
They are such generous hosts. (adjective + plural noun)
He sings with such passion! (noun only — no adjective needed)
SUCH + uncountable noun (no article):
Such devotion is rare.
I can’t believe he would say such things.
The quick test:
Ask yourself: is a noun coming? If yes → such. If no (just adjective/adverb) → so.
Write either so or such to complete each of the following sentences.
EXAMPLE: He was so kind to us.
CHECK OUT OUR OTHER RELATED EXERCISES:
So or such? 1 (B1/B2)
Much or many? 1 (B1/B2)
Some or any? 2 (A2/B1)
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So or such? 1 (B1/B2)
Much or many? 1 (B1/B2)
Some or any? 2 (A2/B1)
More grammar exercises
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