to what extent

to what extent — idiom

1. used to ask or describe how much or how far something is true.

1.idiomB2
Definition

used to ask or describe how much or how far something is true.

Example

The survey asked to what extent employees trusted the new safety rules.

asked to what extent + clause

We need to know to what extent the delay affected customers.

know to what extent + clause

Common collocations
  • to what extent is it true
  • to what extent does it matter
  • know to what extent
  • ask to what extent
  • explain to what extent
Synonyms
  • how much

    more direct and common in everyday questions

  • how far

    often suggests a limit or degree

Grammar Patterns

to what extent + auxiliary verb + subject + verb

ask/know/explain to what extent + clause

to what extent something is true

Usage Note

Use this phrase in questions or indirect questions when asking about the degree, amount, or limit of something.

Common Mistakes

Do not say 'what extent to' before a clause. Say 'to what extent the plan worked,' not 'what extent to the plan worked.'

Common collocations

Nouns

Verbs

Phrases

  • to what extent is it true
  • to what extent does it matter
  • to what extent something changed
  • know to what extent
  • ask to what extent