Can you start a sentence with so?

As an expert in linguistics and the English language, I'd like to clarify that starting a sentence with a conjunction like "so" is not only acceptable but also a common and effective technique in writing and speech. The misconception that it's incorrect to begin a sentence with conjunctions is a myth that has been debunked by experts in the field. In fact, using conjunctions at the beginning of sentences can serve several important functions in communication.
Step 1: English Answer
Firstly, it's important to understand that conjunctions are words that connect clauses or sentences, and they include words like "and," "but," "or," and "so." They are used to coordinate ideas, show relationships between different parts of a text, and can add clarity and flow to writing. The belief that starting a sentence with a conjunction is an error is a prescriptive rule that has been perpetuated without a solid grammatical basis. It's a rule that many people have been taught, but it's not one that is supported by the actual usage of conjunctions in high-quality writing.
In reality, many respected authors and speakers begin sentences with conjunctions to great effect. This practice is particularly common in informal writing and speech, where it can help to create a more conversational tone. For example, in dialogue, a character might say, "So, you're telling me you've never been to Paris?" Here, "so" is used to introduce a new topic or to signal that the speaker is about to make a point that follows logically from what has been said before.
In more formal writing, starting a sentence with a conjunction can also be a useful tool. It can be used to create a smooth transition from one idea to another, or to highlight a key point that the writer wants to emphasize. For instance, a writer might begin a paragraph with "So, the evidence suggests that the policy has been effective," using "so" to introduce a conclusion that is based on the information presented earlier in the text.
Moreover, the use of conjunctions at the beginning of sentences can help to maintain the reader's interest and engagement. It can provide a sense of momentum and forward movement in the text, which can be particularly important in genres like journalism or persuasive writing, where the writer is trying to keep the reader's attention and guide them through a series of arguments or points.
It's also worth noting that the percentage of sentences beginning with conjunctions in high-quality writing is often higher than many people realize. Some studies suggest that it can be as much as 10 percent, which is a significant proportion. This statistic underscores the fact that the use of conjunctions to start sentences is a standard and accepted practice in English.
In conclusion, starting a sentence with "so" or any other conjunction is not only grammatically correct but also a powerful rhetorical device that can enhance the clarity, coherence, and engagement of your writing or speech. It's a technique that should be used judiciously and with purpose, but it's one that is well within the bounds of proper English usage.
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There is a widespread belief--one with no historical or grammatical foundation--that it is an error to begin a sentence with a conjunction such as and, but or so. In fact, a substantial percentage (often as many as 10 percent) of the sentences in first-rate writing begin with conjunctions.May 29, 2014