such

The word “such” means of the kind already mentioned or implied. In plain terms, used to point back to something already described, or to add emphasis, similar to "that kind of" or "so.".

“Such” is pronounced suhch (/sʌt͡ʃ/ in IPA).

Here is “such” used in a sentence: “I've never seen such a mess in my life.”

“Such” is a determiner.

The word “such” comes from Old English. From Old English swelc, from Proto-Germanic swalikaz, literally "so-like" — related to so and like.

“Such” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Such” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: of the kind already mentioned or implied.

'Such' is used before a noun or noun phrase, as in 'such a beautiful day' or 'such kindness.' 'So' is used before an adjective or adverb on its own, as in 'so beautiful' or 'so kindly.' A quick test: if a noun follows, use 'such'; if only an adjective follows, use 'so.'

'Such' points back to a kind or degree already mentioned or understood, so 'I have never heard such a story' means a story of that particular sort. It can also intensify, as in 'such a mess,' emphasising the extent. In both uses it refers to the type or degree implied by context.

'Such as' introduces one or more examples of a general group, and it means roughly 'for example' or 'like,' as in 'fruits such as apples and pears.' It signals that what follows is a sample rather than a complete list. In formal writing it is often preferred to the more casual 'like.'

'I had never seen such beauty' refers to beauty of the kind just witnessed. 'Such people are rare' means people of the type already described. 'It was such a long day' emphasises the degree. Each use of 'such' points back to a kind or extent understood from context.