Lesson Content
Grammar Focus
We use “So” and “Neither” to show agreement with someone’s statement.
- “So” is used to agree with positive statements.
- “Neither” is used to agree with negative statements.
The structure is:
🔹 So / Neither + auxiliary verb + subject
Use the same auxiliary verb or form of be from the original statement (e.g., do, does, did, am, is, are, was, were, have, will, etc.)
🔹 Examples:
- “I like pizza.” → “So do I.”
- “She doesn’t drive.” → “Neither does he.”
- “They were late.” → “So were we.”
- “I haven’t finished my work.” → “Neither have I.”
⚠️ Don’t change the verb tense or use the base verb. These are short agreement statements, not full clauses.
❌ Incorrect: “So I like”
✅ Correct: “So do I”
❌ Incorrect: “Neither I don’t”
✅ Correct: “Neither do I”
This pattern keeps conversations natural and avoids repetition.
🗣️ Why This Grammar Matters for Listening and Speaking
“So / Neither” responses are common in natural conversation. They help you sound more fluent and connected when you’re reacting to someone else’s statement. Instead of repeating the full sentence, you can quickly show agreement.
🔹 Real-life uses:
- Reacting during casual chats:
“I’m tired today.” → “So am I.” - Talking about shared experiences:
“We went to that new restaurant.” → “So did we!” - Expressing common dislikes:
“I don’t like loud music.” → “Neither do I.”
🔹 Useful phrases:
- “So do I.” / “So does she.” / “So will we.”
- “Neither do I.” / “Neither have they.” / “Neither am I.”
✅ Listening Tip:
Pay attention to auxiliary verbs like do, be, have, and their tenses. These help you catch meaning quickly.
If your classmate says, “I can’t swim,” and you hear, “Neither can I,” you know they both share that experience. Understanding this pattern improves your response time and helps conversations flow naturally.
Let’s Practice
Language Game
Now, practice your language skills with these interactive games.
🎧🗣️ Listening & Speaking Practice Questions
Agreeing with Statements: So / Neither
These questions help you practice listening to someone and responding with “So” or “Neither.” Try to add a short comment after you agree to continue the conversation.
Daily Life:
What’s something you really enjoy?
➤ “I love cooking.” — “So do I! What do you like to cook?”
Dislikes:
Is there something you don’t enjoy doing?
➤ “I don’t like doing laundry.” — “Neither do I. It’s so boring.”
Habits and Routines:
Do you get up early in the morning?
➤ “Yes, I wake up at 6 a.m.” — “So do I! It’s hard, right?”
Past Experiences:
Did you travel last summer?
➤ “Yes, I went to Mexico.” — “So did I! What city did you visit?”
Future Plans:
Are you going to study this weekend?
➤ “No, I’m taking a break.” — “Neither am I. I need some rest too.”
Family:
Does your mom enjoy reading?
➤ “Yes, she reads every night.” — “So does mine! What does she read?”
Feelings:
Are you feeling tired today?
➤ “Yes, I stayed up too late.” — “So am I! I need more sleep.”