1
Core function
Partly or in a limited degree.
Example
The two explanations overlap to some extent.
to some extent
/tuː sʌm ɪkˈstent/ · too sum ik-STENTdegree phrase
Partly or in a limited degree.
Use to some extent to express this relationship precisely: partly or in a limited degree.
What to some extent Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
To some extent, the policy succeeded by reducing short-term costs.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The treatment's effectiveness depends to some extent on the patient's age.
Use to some extent Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The two explanations overlap to some extent.
To some extent, the policy succeeded by reducing short-term costs.
The treatment's effectiveness depends to some extent on the patient's age.
Precision Matters
To some extent overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
to some extent
vs.Means partly or in a limited degree.
to a large extent
Means mostly or substantially, though not necessarily completely.
to some extent
vs.Means partly or in a limited degree.
insofar as
Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.
to some extent
vs.Means partly or in a limited degree.
for the most part
Means mostly or generally, while allowing limited exceptions.
to some extent
vs.Means partly or in a limited degree.
in large part
Means mostly or to a substantial extent, though not necessarily entirely.
Test to some extent in Context
Drought explains part of the decline, not all or most of it.
1
The decline can be attributed ___ to drought, but land-use change was the larger cause.