AdverbA1

so

so, in this/that way, like this/that · so, to such a degree · such (a) · so, well, right

A very common adverb meaning 'so', 'like this/that', or 'such'. It is used to indicate manner, degree, or to refer to something previously mentioned or about to be shown. Germans use it constantly in everyday speech, often as a filler or to structure conversation.

What so means

  1. so, in this/that way, like this/that — referring to a manner or way of doing something
  2. so, to such a degree — intensifying an adjective or adverb
  3. such (a) — before a noun, often with 'ein'
  4. so, well, right — as a discourse marker to start or conclude a statement

Heard in real German videos

Lines where so was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.

  • So wie im Abfalleimer?Like in the trash can?
  • Siehst du, so gut wie neu.See, as good as new.
  • Das ist alles so lecker.It's all so delicious.

Example sentences

  • Mach es so, wie ich es dir gezeigt habe.Do it the way I showed you.
  • Das Wetter ist heute so schön.The weather is so nice today.
  • Ich habe so einen Hunger!I'm so hungry!
  • So, jetzt können wir anfangen.So, now we can start.

Common phrases

  • so gut wieas good as, practically
  • so einsuch a
  • so wassomething like that
  • sofortimmediately

The mistake English speakers make

English speakers often confuse 'so' with 'also' (which means 'therefore' in German) or overuse 'so' as a filler in formal writing. Remember that 'so' is primarily an adverb of manner or degree, not a conjunction like English 'so'.

Don’t confuse it with

  • also — 'Also' means 'therefore' or 'so' as a logical consequence, while 'so' refers to manner or degree.
  • wie — 'Wie' means 'how' or 'like' in comparisons, but 'so' is used before it to mean 'as...as'.

Questions learners ask

What is the difference between 'so' and 'also' in German?

'So' means 'so' or 'like this/that', while 'also' means 'therefore' or 'so' in the sense of a logical consequence. For example: 'Es regnet, also bleiben wir zu Hause.' (It's raining, so we stay home.)

How do you use 'so ein' in German?

'So ein' means 'such a' and is used before a noun to express emphasis or emotion, often surprise or admiration. Example: 'So ein schönes Haus!' (Such a beautiful house!)

Can 'so' be used as a filler word in German?

Yes, 'so' is often used as a filler or discourse marker, similar to 'well' or 'so' in English, especially at the beginning of a sentence to signal a transition or conclusion. Example: 'So, das war's für heute.' (So, that's it for today.)