1
Core condition
Limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
Example
The conclusion is persuasive insofar as the underlying records are complete.
insofar as
/ˌɪnsəʊˈfɑːr æz/ · in-soh-FAR azdegree subordinator
Limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
Use insofar as to express this relationship precisely: limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
What insofar as Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Clause-level frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Prices reveal demand insofar as markets are competitive.
3
Limit on the claim
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The comparison is useful only insofar as the two groups were sampled similarly.
Use insofar as Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The conclusion is persuasive insofar as the underlying records are complete.
Prices reveal demand insofar as markets are competitive.
The comparison is useful only insofar as the two groups were sampled similarly.
Precision Matters
Insofar as overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
insofar as
vs.Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
in large part
Means mostly or to a substantial extent, though not necessarily entirely.
insofar as
vs.Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
for the most part
Means mostly or generally, while allowing limited exceptions.
insofar as
vs.Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
even though
Means introduce a true circumstance that might have been expected to prevent the main result but did not.
insofar as
vs.Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
in the event that
Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.
Test insofar as in Context
The model's accuracy is limited to the extent that the condition holds.
1
The model is accurate ___ its assumptions match real market conditions.