In my writing, I’ve often seen how certain phrases like to do so can become repetitive or even flat if used too much. That’s where 35 Other Ways to Say “To Do So” can save the day, helping you elevate your communication so it feels more dynamic and engaging. Whether you’re drafting an email, shaping a report, or just chatting casually, having a variety of options at your disposal makes it easier to express ideas clearly and naturally, keeping the flow alive.
I once caught myself using the same phrase nearly 35 times in a single draft. After reviewing, I replaced them with alternatives, each with its meaning, example, and best use. The effect was remarkable; the document gained flair, the sentences read more smoothly, and the audience stayed engaged. It proved how small adjustments can completely shift the way a message resonates.
What Does “To Do So” Mean?
“To do so” is a phrase used to refer to performing an action previously mentioned or implied in a conversation or text. It’s commonly used to avoid repetition and link an action with its purpose or outcome. However, it can become monotonous if overused. So, understanding how to mix things up with other alternatives can enhance your writing’s tone and clarity.
When to Use “To Do So”
Use “to do so” when you want to indicate the completion of a previously mentioned action without restating it completely. It’s useful in formal writing, instructions, or situations where the action is implied, but the exact details are unnecessary.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “To Do So”?
While “to do so” is a perfectly professional way to refer back to an action, it can sometimes come off as overly formal or distant. Depending on your audience and context, choosing a more straightforward phrase could be more effective.
Pros and Cons of “To Do So”
Pros:
- Keeps writing concise and avoids unnecessary repetition.
- Useful in formal contexts to keep the focus on actions.
- Can help clarify the purpose of an action or follow-up step.
Cons:
- Sounds stiff or overly formal in casual conversations.
- It can be vague and unclear if overused or not explained.
- May require the reader to mentally backtrack to understand the reference.
To Do So Synonyms:
- To Accomplish This
- In Order to Do This
- To Achieve This
- To Carry Out This Action
- To Fulfill This Task
- To Effectuate This
- To Do This
- To Carry Out the Necessary Steps
- To Proceed With This
- To Execute This Plan
- To Follow Through With This
- To Engage in This Activity
- To Undertake This Task
- To Take This Step
- To Do This Task
- To Perform This Task
- To Take Action
- To Set This in Motion
- To Act on This
- To Put This Into Effect
- To Execute This
- To Follow Through on This
- To Commit to This
- To Go Ahead With This
- To Put It into Action
- To Implement This
- To Move Forward With This
- To Begin This Process
- To Undertake This Responsibility
- To Carry Out These Instructions
- To Act Upon This
- To Carry Out the Necessary Actions
- To Follow Through on the Plan
- To Perform the Necessary Actions
- To Act by This
To Accomplish This
Meaning:
Achieving or completing a task.
Explanation:
This alternative emphasizes the goal or the outcome of the action.
Example:
“To accomplish this, you need to follow the outlined steps carefully.”
Best Use:
In instructional contexts or goal-oriented discussions.
Worst Use:
Casual conversations or informal settings.
Tone:
Professional and focused.
In Order to Do This
Meaning:
Indicates the intention or purpose behind an action.
Explanation:
This phrase is perfect when you want to show that a specific action is required to achieve something.
Example:
“In order to do this, you must first gather all the necessary information.”
Best Use:
In formal or structured writing, where purpose is important.
Worst Use:
Informal contexts where you want a more casual tone.
Tone:
Clear and purposeful.
To Achieve This
Meaning:
Aimed at reaching a specific result or outcome.
Explanation:
This is another way to express acting with a goal in mind.
Example:
“To achieve this, we must allocate more resources to the project.”
Best Use:
When outlining objectives or strategies.
Worst Use:
Casual conversations.
Tone:
Assertive and goal-oriented.
To Carry Out This Action
Meaning:
To perform a task or execute a specific action.
Explanation:
This phrase adds a formal tone while conveying the action of carrying out something.
Example:
“To carry out this action, you must adhere to the outlined guidelines.”
Best Use:
Formal business or procedural contexts.
Worst Use:
Informal or casual speech.
Tone:
Formal and structured.
To Fulfill This Task
Meaning:
Completing a task or obligation.
Explanation:
A good phrase for emphasizing the completion of a required task.
Example:
“To fulfill this task, we need to prioritize team collaboration.”
Best Use:
Professional settings or when outlining responsibilities.
Worst Use:
Informal conversations.
Tone:
Formal and task-focused.
To Effectuate This
Meaning:
To put something into effect or make it happen.
Explanation:
This alternative adds a slightly sophisticated touch when discussing the execution of a plan or decision.
Example:
“To effectuate this, we need to organize the necessary resources and personnel.”
Best Use:
Business, legal, or formal writing.
Worst Use:
Casual conversations or simple instructions.
Tone:
Formal and technical.
To Do This
Meaning:
Emphasizes the attempt or intention to achieve something.
Explanation:
This phrase is useful when the focus is on the effort being made to complete the action.
Example:
“In an effort to do this, we are increasing our budget for the upcoming quarter.”
Best Use:
Discussions around goals, initiatives, or strategies.
Worst Use:
In situations where brevity is needed.
Tone:
Determined and strategic.
To Carry Out the Necessary Steps
Meaning:
Performing a series of actions or processes to achieve something.
Explanation:
This alternative emphasizes the process and steps involved in completing an action.
Example:
“To carry out the necessary steps, we need to organize our approach.”
Best Use:
When detailing processes or explaining action plans.
Worst Use:
Informal conversations.
Tone:
Clear and instructional.
To Proceed With This
Meaning:
To move forward with an action or task.
Explanation:
A straightforward phrase when you’re indicating the next step in a sequence of actions.
Example:
“To proceed with this, we will need approval from the board.”
Best Use:
Formal discussions, project management, or instructions.
Worst Use:
Casual or colloquial conversations.
Tone:
Professional and to-the-point.
To Execute This Plan
Meaning:
To implement or carry out a specific plan or strategy.
Explanation:
This phrase is useful for formal or strategic discussions about completing tasks.
Example:
“To execute this plan, we need to align all team members with the new strategy.”
Best Use:
In strategic meetings, project planning, or corporate discussions.
Worst Use:
Informal or conversational settings.
Tone:
Formal and strategic.
To Follow Through With This
Meaning:
To complete an action or task as intended.
Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes the continuation of an action until it’s done.
Example:
“To follow through with this, we must ensure all deadlines are met.”
Best Use:
When discussing completing tasks or commitments.
Worst Use:
Casual conversations or when actions are not clearly defined.
Tone:
Determined and consistent.
To Engage in This Activity
Meaning:
Refers to starting or participating in a particular action or activity.
Explanation:
This phrase is useful when you want to make the action sound more involved or participatory.
Example:
“To engage in this activity, you need to fill out the required forms first.”
Best Use:
In instructions, classes, or workshops.
Worst Use:
When you want a simple, straightforward approach.
Tone:
Active and participatory.
To Undertake This Task
Meaning:
To begin or take on a responsibility or action.
Explanation:
This phrase gives a sense of responsibility and commitment to a task.
Example:
“To undertake this task, it’s crucial that you have the necessary tools and knowledge.”
Best Use:
Professional settings, especially when discussing tasks or projects.
Worst Use:
Informal situations or quick tasks.
Tone:
Formal and responsible.
To Take This Step
Meaning:
Refers to taking an individual action as part of a larger process.
Explanation:
This alternative is perfect for breaking down a process into manageable parts.
Example:
“To take this step, we must first complete the initial analysis.”
Best Use:
In detailed action plans or project steps.
Worst Use:
When brevity is required.
Tone:
Simple and direct.
To Do This Task
Meaning:
A direct way of stating the action or task at hand.
Explanation:
This phrase is simple and to the point, focusing purely on the task.
Example:
“To do this task, you’ll need access to the project files.”
Best Use:
Informal, direct communication or simple instructions.
Worst Use:
When a more formal or refined tone is needed.
Tone:
Simple.
To Perform This Task
Meaning:
To carry out or execute a specific duty or function.
Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes the action of carrying out a task as a formal or professional duty.
Example:
“To perform this task, please ensure all equipment is ready beforehand.”
Best Use:
In technical settings, professional roles, or when outlining specific duties.
Worst Use:
Informal situations or casual conversations.
Tone:
Formal and task-oriented.
To Take Action
Meaning:
To initiate an action or step forward in completing a task.
Explanation:
A broad term that can be used to refer to any action, but it’s especially useful when discussing making progress or getting things done.
Example:
“To take action, we need to identify the key issues and develop a plan.”
Best Use:
When discussing general action, decisions, or moving forward.
Worst Use:
When you need something more specific or defined.
Tone:
Motivational and proactive.
To Set This in Motion
Meaning:
To initiate or begin an action that sets off a series of events.
Explanation:
This phrase suggests the start of a process that will have continuing effects.
Example:
“To set this in motion, we need to schedule a meeting with the stakeholders.”
Best Use:
In planning stages, project initiation, or when outlining the beginning of a process.
Worst Use:
Casual contexts or when you don’t need to emphasize the start of a process.
Tone:
Dynamic and initiating.
To Act on This
Meaning:
To take action based on something, such as a plan, decision, or instruction.
Explanation:
This phrase is helpful when referring to taking steps based on previous instructions or suggestions.
Example:
“To act on this, we must first review the feedback from the team.”
Best Use:
When referring to following up on decisions or instructions.
Worst Use:
In casual contexts where a simple phrase is preferred.
Tone:
Focused and directive.
To Put This Into Effect
Meaning:
To implement or make something operational.
Explanation:
This is often used when referring to the formal execution or implementation of plans, policies, or strategies.
Example:
“To put this into effect, the team must be briefed on the new procedures.”
Best Use:
In professional or organizational settings, when discussing policy changes or strategies.
Worst Use:
In informal or casual conversations.
Tone:
Official and procedural.
To Execute This
Meaning:
To act or plan with precision and focus.
Explanation:
This phrase is often used in strategic or business contexts when referring to the implementation of a well-thought-out plan.
Example:
“To execute this, we’ll need to assign specific tasks to the team members.”
Best Use:
In project management, business strategies, or technical discussions.
Worst Use:
Casual or informal contexts.
Tone:
Professional and assertive.
To Follow Through on This
Meaning:
To complete a task or promise after initiating it.
Explanation:
This emphasizes completing an action that has already started, ensuring it reaches a successful conclusion.
Example:
“To follow through on this, we need to ensure all deadlines are met.”
Best Use:
In situations where ensuring the completion of a task is crucial.
Worst Use:
When urgency or brevity is needed.
Tone:
Determined and reliable.
To Commit to This
Meaning:
To dedicate time, effort, or resources to an action or goal.
Explanation:
This phrase shows a deeper level of involvement and responsibility for completing a task.
Example:
“To commit to this, we must ensure that all necessary resources are in place.”
Best Use:
In professional settings, projects, or when discussing long-term efforts.
Worst Use:
In casual or short-term discussions.
Tone:
Strong and dedicated.
To Go Ahead With This
Meaning:
To proceed with an action or decision.
Explanation:
This phrase indicates permission or a go-ahead to begin or continue with a plan.
Example:
“To go ahead with this, we’ll need final approval from the board.”
Best Use:
When moving forward with decisions, approvals, or plans.
Worst Use:
When you want a more formal or specific phrase.
Tone:
Confident and decisive.
To Put It into Action
Meaning:
To take the necessary steps to begin an action or plan.
Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes turning an idea or plan into reality.
Example:
“To put it into action, let’s start by gathering the required materials.”
Best Use:
When talking about implementing plans or executing ideas.
Worst Use:
When simplicity is more appropriate.
Tone:
Practical and focused.
To Implement This
Meaning:
To put a plan, decision, or idea into effect.
Explanation:
This phrase is commonly used in business, technology, and formal settings when discussing the application of strategies or ideas.
Example:
“To implement this, we need to assign specific roles to each department.”
Best Use:
In business contexts, project management or formal discussions are used.
Worst Use:
Casual or informal settings.
Tone:
Formal and technical.
To Move Forward With This
Meaning:
To proceed or advance with a decision or task.
Explanation:
This phrase indicates momentum, suggesting that you’re making progress and continuing with the next steps.
Example:
“To move forward with this, we need to finalize the budget.”
Best Use:
When discussing progress or the next phase of a plan.
Worst Use:
In situations requiring quick, informal responses.
Tone:
Positive and action-oriented.
To Begin This Process
Meaning:
To initiate a particular series of actions or steps.
Explanation:
A direct phrase for signaling the start of an organized effort or project.
Example:
“To begin this process, let’s schedule a meeting to review the next steps.”
Best Use:
When outlining the first steps of a project or plan.
Worst Use:
When referring to a completed action or outcome.
Tone:
Clear and structured.
To Undertake This Responsibility
Meaning:
To take on a particular task or duty.
Explanation:
This phrase conveys the idea of accepting a responsibility or commitment.
Example:
“To undertake this responsibility, we must ensure we have the right team in place.”
Best Use:
When referring to tasks that require accountability and effort.
Worst Use:
In casual contexts or when the responsibility is not formal.
Tone:
Serious and accountable.
To Carry Out These Instructions
Meaning:
To perform tasks or actions according to given directions.
Explanation:
A precise and clear way of saying that someone is following instructions.
Example:
“To carry out these instructions, please refer to the manual provided.”
Best Use:
In instructional, procedural, or technical contexts.
Worst Use:
In casual or informal conversations.
Tone:
Direct and instructional.
To Act Upon This
Meaning:
To take action based on advice, guidance, or a previous statement.
Explanation:
This phrase implies that action is being taken in response to something already mentioned or decided.
Example:
“To act upon this, we need to adjust our marketing strategy accordingly.”
Best Use:
When responding to feedback, suggestions, or decisions.
Worst Use:
In casual or quick exchanges where clarity is needed.
Tone:
Responsive and deliberate.
To Carry Out the Necessary Actions
Meaning:
To perform the required tasks to accomplish a goal.
Explanation:
This phrase is useful when detailing what must be done for something to succeed or move forward.
Example:
“To carry out the necessary actions, we need to review each step carefully.”
Best Use:
When outlining detailed processes or steps in a formal setting.
Worst Use:
When you need to keep things short and simple.
Tone:
Detailed and thorough.
To Follow Through on the Plan
Meaning:
To ensure that all aspects of a plan or task are completed as expected.
Explanation:
This phrase suggests persistence and follow-up in completing a task.
Example:
“To follow through on the plan, we need to ensure all team members are aligned.”
Best Use:
In long-term projects or goals that require commitment and follow-up.
Worst Use:
In casual or quick updates.
Tone:
Reliable and committed.
To Perform the Necessary Actions
Meaning:
To complete the required steps or actions needed for an outcome.
Explanation:
This alternative emphasizes the steps that must be taken for a task to be completed successfully.
Example:
“To perform the necessary actions, we need to prioritize this task immediately.”
Best Use:
In technical or detailed planning situations.
Worst Use:
When brevity is preferred.
Tone:
Clear and task-focused.
To Act by This
Meaning:
To take action that is consistent with established guidelines or instructions.
Explanation:
This phrase highlights that the action aligns with prior agreements or rules.
Example:
“To act under this, we must follow the established procedure.”
Best Use:
In legal, formal, or organizational settings.
Worst Use:
In casual, everyday conversations.
Tone:
Formal and compliant.
Conclusion
Using alternatives to “to do so” allows you to inject variety and nuance into your communication, whether in formal or informal settings. By choosing the right phrase based on your tone and context, you make your messages more engaging and clear. These 35 alternatives not only expand your vocabulary but also help you communicate with greater care, purpose, and precision. So next time you need to express an action, consider switching up your approach; your words will sound more dynamic and thoughtful!
FAQs
Why should I look for alternatives to “to do so”?
Using the same phrase too often can make your writing sound repetitive or flat. Alternatives help keep your sentences fresh and engaging.
What are some quick examples of alternatives?
You can use phrases like in this way, by doing that, or for that reason. Each has its own meaning and best use depending on context.
How can alternatives elevate communication?
Choosing the right substitute helps elevate your communication, making it more dynamic, clear, and naturally expressive.
Where can I use these alternatives most effectively?
They work in many places, whether it’s an email, a report, or even chatting casually. The goal is to match the tone with your audience.
How many alternatives should I keep in mind?
Ideally, know a variety of options. There are 35 Other Ways to Say “To Do So” that can add real flair to your writing.
Hi, I’m Johnny Peter, the voice behind Grammarwaves.com – a platform dedicated to making English grammar simple, clear, and easy to understand for everyone. With years of experience in language education and a deep passion for writing, I break down confusing grammar rules into everyday English that anyone can grasp.
