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"So" is a form of "so", a preposition which is often translated as "under". "Por lo que" is a phrase which is often translated as "so". Learn more about the difference between "so" and "por lo que" below.
so(
soh
)A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
1. (subject to)
a. under
Se ha incrementado el número de cámaras de videovigilancia so pretexto de velar por la seguridad ciudadana.The number of CCTV cameras has increased under the pretext of ensuring public safety.
b. on
El Papa le dijo que debía retractarse de lo que había dicho so pena de ser excomulgado.The Pope told him he should withdraw what he's said on pain of excomunion.
An interjection is a short utterance that expresses emotion, hesitation, or protest (e.g., Wow!).
por lo que(
pohr
loh
keh
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
a. so
Mi tío estaba ocupado, por lo que regresé a casa sin hablar con él.My uncle was busy, so I went back home without talking to him.
b. for which reason
Mi jefe no tenía confianza en mí, por lo que me vigilaba constantemente.My boss didn't trust me, for which reason he kept an eye on me constantly.
c. which is why
Es difícil explicar el problema, por lo que me voy a callar.It's hard to explain the problem, which is why I'm not going to say anything.
d. which was why
Me enfadé muchísimo, por lo que le colgué el teléfono.I got really annoyed, which was why I hung up on him.
