So vs Such Advanced Exercises
B2-C1 Level
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In formal written English, the word "that" in these clauses is essential; dropping it is only acceptable in informal speech. An important distinction exists between "so...that" (result — showing consequence) and "so that" (purpose — showing intention): "She left early so that she could catch the train" expresses purpose, not result. At B2-C1 level, learners are also expected to recognise "so as to" and "so as not to" for formal purpose clauses. Cambridge B2 First and C1 Advanced examinations frequently test these differences.
Quick Rule
so + adjective/adverb + that + result | such (+ a/an) + adjective + noun + that + result
- 1.The instructions were so confusing that nobody understood them. (so + adjective + that + result)
- 2.It was such a cold morning that the pipes froze overnight. (such + a + adjective + noun + that + result)
- 3.She spoke so persuasively that everyone changed their minds. (so + adverb + that + result)
- 4.They weren't such experienced negotiators that they could handle the deal alone. (negative — such + adjective + noun)
- 5.He made such a convincing case that the board approved the budget unanimously. (such + a + adjective + noun + that + result)
All 20 questions
Complete each sentence with 'so', 'such', or 'such a/an'. These sentences include result clauses and more complex structures. Complete with 'so', 'such', or 'such a/an'.
The evidence was _____ convincing that the committee reached a decision within an hour.
It was _____ overwhelming response that the servers crashed.
Never have I witnessed _____ remarkable transformation in a company.
The mountain trail was covered with _____ thick fog that the hikers had to turn back.
She spoke _____ eloquently that the entire audience was moved to tears.
There was _____ elaborate plan behind the project that it took months to organise.
The goalkeeper showed _____ incredible skill during the final match.
His arguments were _____ poorly constructed that the reviewers rejected them immediately.
Rarely does one encounter _____ clear insight in popular literature.
The technology advanced _____ rapidly that regulations couldn't keep pace.
The committee received _____ overwhelming number of applications that they extended the deadline.
The surgeon operated with _____ precision that the recovery time was half the usual.
The river rose _____ quickly that many homes near the bank were flooded.
We were given _____ vague instructions that nobody knew what to do.
The new app seemed _____ innovative that investors immediately showed interest.
It was _____ unprecedented crisis that the government declared a state of emergency.
The athlete demonstrated _____ extraordinary talent that scouts from several countries contacted her.
The storm arrived _____ suddenly that many families were unprepared.
The research produced _____ contradictory results that the team had to start over.
Seldom has there been _____ intense debate over a single policy decision.
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