Both expressions can refer back to an action.

The idea

Use do so to replace an understood action, especially in formal contexts; do it is often more conversational. Change the form of do to fit the clause: did so, will do it.

Examples

  • The committee agreed to meet, and it did so on Friday.
  • Please close the gate; I cannot do it myself.
  • Anyone wishing to leave may do so quietly.
  • I promised to water the plants, and I did it yesterday.
  • The museum will extend its hours if it can do so safely.
  • You can send the file now, or do it tomorrow.

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Watch out

The action must be clear from context. Avoid do so for a state such as knowing a person; use another construction instead.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. The board voted to postpone the event and ___ on Monday. (did so / was so)

    Show answer or example answer

    did so

    did so refers to postponing and fits the past context.

  2. Choose the correct option. Please wash the cups. I will ___ after lunch. (do it / do them so)

    Show answer or example answer

    do it

    do it refers to washing the cups after lunch.

  3. Choose the correct option. The council plans to plant trees and can ___ next spring. (do so / does so)

    Show answer or example answer

    do so

    do so follows the modal and refers to planting trees.

Use it today

Describe an action and refer back to it once formally and once conversationally.