sodass

Definition & meaning

The word sodass (also spelled so dass) is a conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause that expresses a consequence or a result. It translates to "so that," "such that," or "with the result that."

• Result/Consequence: It describes the outcome of an action or state mentioned in the main clause.
  • Example: "Er lernte viel, sodass er die Prüfung bestand." (He studied a lot, so that he passed the exam.)

Grammar & Word origin

• Grammar: It is a subordinating conjunction, which means it triggers a subordinate clause structure where the conjugated verb is placed at the very end of the sentence. While the spelling "sodass" is the standard recommendation since the German orthography reform, "so dass" (written as two separate words) is also permitted and commonly used.
• Word origin: It is a compound of the adverb "so" (so/thus) and the conjunction "dass" (that). Etymologically, it combines the indicator of the manner or degree of an action with the connector that introduces the resulting consequence.

Synonyms & antonyms

• Synonyms:

  • demnach ↗ (therefore/consequently)
  • folglich ↗ (consequently)
  • sodass ↗ can often be replaced in specific contexts by sodass ↗ or sodass ↗ phrases like mit der Folge, dass ↗.

• Antonyms:

  • Since sodass ↗ serves to connect a cause to an effect, there is no direct lexical antonym. However, one could look at adversative conjunctions that express a contrast rather than a result, such as:
  • dennoch ↗ (nevertheless)
  • trotzdem ↗ (anyway/despite that)