inasmuch as, insofar as

Insofar as (also spelled in so far as) means “to the extent that.”

• That’s the end of the story insofar (or in so far) as the citizens of Nanaimo are concerned.

Inasmuch as, written in two words, is usually used as a long and very formal synonym for because or since.

• Inasmuch as you have expressed your desire to marry, we shall not oppose your wishes.

However, inasmuch as can also be used to mean “to the extent that” and can thus be used interchangeably with insofar as in some contexts.

• The meeting went ahead in the absence of quorum, and the issues were dealt with inasmuch as possible (or insofar as possible) under the circumstances.