Adding Emphasis: so…that, such…that, even, only

So + adjective/adverb + (that)

This structure emphasizes the results or effects of something. The word “that” can often be omitted in informal English.

Structure:

• So + adjective + (that) + clause
• So + adverb + (that) + clause

Examples:

It was so funny (that) I couldn’t stop laughing.

The music was so loud (that) we couldn’t hear each other.

She speaks so quickly (that) it’s hard to understand her.

The problem was so complex (that) nobody could solve it.

Note:

• With negative results: “It was so expensive (that) I didn’t buy it.”
• “So” indicates a high degree or intensity
• The result clause shows the consequence of this high degree

Such (a/an) + (adjective) + noun + (that)

This structure also emphasizes the results or effects of something but is used with nouns rather than adjectives alone.

Structure:

• Such + (adjective) + plural noun + (that) + clause
• Such + (adjective) + uncountable noun + (that) + clause
• Such a/an + (adjective) + singular countable noun + (that) + clause

Examples:

She is such a good friend (that) everyone turns to her when they have a problem.

It was such beautiful weather (that) we decided to go to the beach.

They are such talented musicians (that) they perform without rehearsals.

He has such extensive knowledge (that) he can answer any question.

Note:

• “Such” focuses on the type or quality of the noun
• Use “a/an” only with singular countable nouns
• The result clause shows the consequence of the quality or type described

Even

“Even” is placed before a word, phrase, or part of the sentence to add emphasis or signal that something is surprising or unexpected.

Possible positions:

• Before the subject
• Before the main verb
• Before prepositions
• Before adverbials

Examples:

Even the most confident person needs help sometimes.

He works long hours during the week and even works on Saturdays sometimes.

Building trust with people makes your life even happier.

They visited many European countries and even went to Iceland.

Even with all the evidence, they refused to believe her.

Functions of “even”:

It’s even more important to listen than to speak.

To emphasize something unexpected:

Even children understand this concept.

I even enjoyed the long wait at the airport.

To emphasize extremes:

Even the best athletes make mistakes.

She works hard even on holidays.

To intensify comparisons:

The second movie was even better than the first one.

Only

“Only” is placed before a word, phrase, or part of the sentence to add emphasis or restriction. It means “no one else” or “nothing else” than the people, things, amount, or activity mentioned.

Possible positions:

• Before the subject
• Before the main verb
• Before objects/complements
• Before adverbials

Examples:

Only you can steer him away from making a big mistake.

Quitting your job will only hurt your career.

She spoke only to her close friends about the problem.

The medicine is available only by prescription.

Functions of “only”:

To restrict or limit:

Only members are allowed to enter the club.

I only wanted to help.

To emphasize uniqueness or exclusivity:

She is the only person who knows the truth.

This is only possible in specific circumstances.

To indicate a small amount or degree:

We’ve only just begun the project.

There are only three cookies left.

Note on position:

• The position of “only” can change the meaning of the sentence:
• I told her only the truth. (I didn’t tell her anything false)
• Only I told her the truth. (Nobody else told her)
• I only told her the truth. (I didn’t do anything else)
• I told only her the truth. (I didn’t tell anyone else)