Is It Correct to Say “Thus Far”? The Ultimate Grammar, Usage

Is It Correct to Say “Thus Far” in modern English? Yes, it remains grammatically accepted and widely used in formal contexts today.

Language can feel like a tricky beast. You think you’ve figured out the rules of grammar and vocabulary, then a small phrase like Thus far throws a curveball. It may sound old-timey, like something from dusty books or historical dramas, yet people still use it in emails, meetings, reports, news, and articles. 

In professional writing, a formal sentence can feel polished not stiff when the context fits. I once paused to wonder about its correctness, but the short answer is absolutely yes. Its meaning is simple: “up to this point in time” or “until now.” It works as a time marker in sentences, indicating events and conditions from the past, continuing into the present moment. 

Is It Correct to Say “Thus Far”? Quick Answer

Yes. It is completely correct to say “thus far.”

The phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted in formal English. You’ll see it in:

• Academic research papers
• Business reports
• Legal documents
• News analysis
• Historical writing

However, it sounds formal. You wouldn’t usually say it while texting a friend.

Simple Rule to Remember

Use “thus far” when you mean “up to this point in time” and you want a formal tone.

If you’re speaking casually, use “so far.”

That’s the short version. Now let’s go deeper.

What Does “Thus Far” Mean?

At its core, “thus far” means:

Up to this point in time.

It refers to progress, status, or results that have happened until now.

Clear Examples

• Thus far, the results have exceeded expectations.
• No major issues have emerged thus far.
• The company has raised $2 million thus far.

Each sentence signals progress up to the present moment.

What It Does NOT Mean

It does not refer to physical distance.

Incorrect:

• I’ve walked thus far down the road.

That sounds unnatural. You’d say:

• I’ve walked this far down the road.

That distinction matters.

Breaking Down the Phrase “Thus Far”

Understanding each word helps you use it confidently.

What Does “Thus” Mean?

“Thus” is an adverb. It traditionally means:

• In this way
• As a result
• Therefore

However, in modern English, “thus” often signals formality. It appears in academic or analytical writing.

For example:

• The experiment failed thus the hypothesis was revised.

In “thus far,” it takes on a slightly different nuance.

It means:

In this manner up to this point.

Over time, the phrase became fixed. Now it functions as a single unit.

What Does “Far” Mean in “Thus Far”?

“Far” usually refers to distance. But here, it indicates extent.

Specifically:

• Extent of time
• Extent of progress

It acts as an adverb modifying how much progress has occurred.

So when combined, “thus far” = to this extent in time.

Why the Combination Works

“Thus far” functions as an adverbial phrase. That means it modifies verbs or entire clauses.

Example:

• Thus far, no evidence contradicts the theory.

Here, it modifies the entire statement.

It behaves like a single time marker.

The Grammar Behind “Thus Far”

Now let’s examine structure.

Part of Speech

“Thus far” is an adverbial phrase. It modifies:

• Verbs
• Entire sentences
• Clauses

It does not act as a noun or adjective.

Tense Compatibility: What Verb Tenses Work Best?

This is where many writers slip.

The most natural tense with “thus far” is:

Present Perfect

Because the phrase refers to something continuing up to now.

Examples:

• The team has completed three phases thus far.
• We have received 500 responses thus far.

Why present perfect works:
It connects past action to the present.

Other Acceptable Tenses

Tense	Works?	Example
Present Perfect	Yes	We have raised $50,000 thus far.
Simple Present	Yes	Thus far, the plan meets expectations.
Past Perfect	Rare	They had achieved little thus far.
Simple Past	Usually no	We completed three stages thus far.

Notice how simple past sounds awkward.

If the event is finished entirely, avoid “thus far.”

Sentence Placement Rules for “Thus Far”

You can place it in three positions.

Beginning of Sentence

Formal and authoritative.

• Thus far, the project remains on schedule.

Common in:

• Academic writing
• Reports
• Journalism

Middle of Sentence

Neutral but still formal.

• The committee has thus far approved six proposals.

Works well in business writing.

End of Sentence

More natural but still elevated.

• We have received no objections thus far.

This placement feels slightly less stiff.

Which Position Sounds Best?

For formal writing, beginning placement adds weight.

For business emails, middle or end works better.

Correct vs. Incorrect Usage of “Thus Far”

Let’s sharpen your instincts.

Correct Examples

• Thus far, no legal challenges have emerged.
• Sales have increased 18% thus far this quarter.
• Researchers have identified five variables thus far.

Each refers to time-based progress.

Incorrect or Awkward Uses

Incorrect:

• I’ve driven thus far down the highway.

Incorrect tense:

• We finished the campaign thus far.

Tone mismatch:

• Hey bro, thus far I’m broke.

That sounds theatrical.

Quick Fix Checklist

Before using “thus far,” ask:

• Is this about time progression?
• Does the verb tense match ongoing action?
• Is the tone formal enough?

If yes to all three, you’re safe.

Formality and Tone of “Thus Far”

This phrase carries weight. It sounds deliberate.

Here’s a tone comparison:

Phrase	Formality Level	Natural in Speech	Academic Writing	Business Writing
Thus far	High	Rare	Excellent	Strong
So far	Neutral	Very common	Good	Excellent
This far	Contextual	Common	Rare	Rare

Where It Sounds Right

• Quarterly earnings reports
• Research summaries
• Legal arguments
• Policy analysis

Where It Sounds Stiff

• Text messages
• Casual blogs
• Friendly conversations

If your audience expects polish, use it. If they expect warmth, reconsider.

“Thus Far” vs. “So Far” — What’s the Difference?

Meaning-wise, they’re almost identical.

Tone-wise, they’re not.

Meaning Comparison

Both mean:

Up to this point in time.

Example:

• So far, we’ve seen improvement.
• Thus far, we’ve seen improvement.

The meaning doesn’t change.

The tone does.

Tone Difference

“So far” feels conversational.

“Thus far” feels analytical.

Use “thus far” when you want authority.

Use “so far” when you want accessibility.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Context	So Far	Thus Far
Casual Update	So far, it’s going well.	Too formal
Academic Paper	Acceptable	Stronger
Investor Report	Acceptable	More authoritative

“Thus Far” vs. “This Far”

These phrases are often confused.

Key Difference

• Thus far → Time
• This far → Physical or metaphorical distance

Example:

• Thus far, we’ve avoided delays.
• We’ve come this far, don’t quit now.

Completely different meanings.

Real-World Usage of “Thus Far”

Let’s see how professionals use it.

Business Example

Case Study: Quarterly Earnings Report

A public company reports:

“Revenue has increased 12% thus far in fiscal year 2026.”

This signals ongoing progress. Investors understand results may continue evolving.

Academic Example

In research writing:

“Thus far, the data supports the initial hypothesis.”

That phrasing signals evidence accumulation.

Legal Writing Example

In court filings:

“Thus far, no evidence has been submitted to contradict the claim.”

Legal writing favors precision. “Thus far” fits perfectly.

“Thus Far” in Literature and History

Older English favored formal phrasing.

Writers in the 18th and 19th centuries used “thus far” more frequently. It reflected elevated diction.

Modern English prefers clarity and brevity. That’s why “so far” dominates everyday speech today.

However, “thus far” remains strong in structured writing.

Read More: Skin in the Game: Meaning, Real Examples, and Practical Use

Strong Alternatives to “Thus Far”

Sometimes you need variety.

Neutral Alternatives

• So far
• Up to now
• Until now
• To date

Formal Alternatives

• To this point
• As of now
• Hitherto

“Hitherto” sounds even more formal than “thus far.” Use carefully.

Tone-Based Decision Table

Goal	Best Choice
Casual tone	So far
Academic authority	Thus far
Legal precision	Thus far
Conversational blog	So far
Historical narrative	Hitherto

Common Questions About “Thus Far”

Is “thus far” outdated?

No. It’s formal, not outdated. It remains common in academic and business contexts.

Can I use it in emails?

Yes if the email is formal.

Example:

• We have received no updates thus far.

Avoid it in friendly messages.

Is it redundant with “until now”?

They mean the same thing. Choose one.

Incorrect:

• Thus far until now, we’ve succeeded.

That’s repetitive.

Does it always require present perfect tense?

Not always. However, present perfect sounds most natural because it emphasizes ongoing relevance.

Should bloggers use it?

Only if your tone is analytical or professional. Otherwise, “so far” feels warmer.

Should You Use “Thus Far”?

Here’s the honest answer.

Use “thus far” when:

• You’re writing formally
• You want authority
• You’re discussing measurable progress
• Your audience expects precision

Avoid it when:

• You’re chatting casually
• You want emotional warmth
• Simplicity works better

One-Sentence Rule

If you’re writing a report, research paper, or formal analysis, “thus far” strengthens your credibility.

If you’re speaking casually, choose “so far.”

Language isn’t just about correctness. It’s about fit.

Choose the phrase that matches your tone, audience, and purpose.

Now you know exactly when “thus far” works — and when it doesn’t.

And thus far, you’ve mastered it.

FAQs 

1. Is “thus far” grammatically correct in standard English?

Yes. It is perfectly and grammatically correct in standard English. It works as a time marker that refers to events from the past continuing into the present moment.

2. Is “thus far” too formal for everyday talk?

In casual conversation, it may sound slightly formal. Most people prefer “so far” or “up to now” in relaxed settings. However, in professional writing, academic papers, or business presentations, it fits naturally.

3. What is the main difference between “so far” and “thus far”?

The core meaning is the same. Both describe the same time period. The real difference is tone and sound. “Thus far” carries more weight and formality, while “so far” feels more conversational.

4. Can “thus far” sound outdated or dramatic?

Some writers hesitate because it may seem old-timey or slightly dramatic. Yet it has survived centuries and still appears in modern reports, announcements, and formal communication.

5. When should you avoid using “thus far”?

Avoid it when a lighter tone is needed. If your audience expects simple, friendly language, choose a more relaxed option. Always match your words to the context, situation, and desired tone.

Conclusion

So, is it correct to say “thus far”? Absolutely yes. It remains widely accepted and meaningful in modern English. The key is not correctness alone but tone, context, and audience expectations. When used with care, it adds clarity and depth. When overused, it may feel stiff. Choose wisely, and your writing will sound both natural and precise.