Sumo wrestlers? I think so!

We use so with believe, hope, and think in conversations as a response to yes or no questions. So is used to replace a phrase starting with that:

• Jim: Is Tony coming to the party?
• Jack: I believe so. I believe that Tony is coming to the party.

Here are some other examples:

• Jim: Did Bob order the pizza for lunch?
• Jack: I hope so. I didn’t have breakfast, so I’m really hungry.

• Bill: Does this train go to Times Square?
• Jenny: I think so, but to be sure, please ask the conductor over there.

In a negative sentence, we can use don’t believe so, don’t think so, and hope not. We don’t use don’t hope so.

• Jim: Is Tony coming to the party?
• Jack: I don’t believe so. He usually works on Saturdays.

• Bill: Does this train go to Times Square?
• Jenny: I don’t think so, but to be sure, please ask the conductor over there.

• Jim: Did Bob order the pizza from Dominica’s Pizza?
• Jack: I hope not. Their pizza is too greasy. I hope he called Lombardi’s.

Have you used so in conversation like this? Leave a comment below and let me know!

If you know anyone who has trouble with this English language point, why not help them out! Just share this lesson with them.

Thanks for studying today!