In the English language, conjunctions are essential tools that help us connect ideas, sentences, and clauses. Among the various types of conjunctions, one particularly important category is purpose conjunctions. These conjunctions are used to express the reason or purpose behind an action. Understanding how to use purpose conjunctions correctly can greatly enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your communication clearer and more effective.
What are Purpose Conjunctions?
Purpose conjunctions are words or phrases that link two parts of a sentence by indicating the purpose behind the action described in the main clause. Common purpose conjunctions in English include “so that,” “in order to,” and “so as to.”
For example:
– She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.
– He left early in order to catch the first train.
– They are working overtime so as to finish the project on time.
Common Purpose Conjunctions and Their Uses
So That
“So that” is a versatile purpose conjunction used to indicate the reason or purpose for an action. It is often followed by a modal verb such as “can,” “could,” “may,” or “might.”
Examples:
– She brought an umbrella so that she wouldn’t get wet in the rain.
– I saved money so that I could buy a new car.
– He exercises regularly so that he might stay healthy.
In these examples, “so that” connects the action in the main clause with the intended result or purpose.
In Order To
“In order to” is another common purpose conjunction that is used to express why an action is taken. It is usually followed by a base form of a verb (infinitive).
Examples:
– She joined a gym in order to lose weight.
– They studied all night in order to prepare for the test.
– He moved to the city in order to find a better job.
“In order to” is often interchangeable with “to” when expressing purpose, although it adds a slightly more formal tone.
So As To
“So as to” is a formal purpose conjunction similar to “in order to.” It is also followed by the base form of a verb.
Examples:
– He whispered so as to not wake the baby.
– She wore a coat so as to stay warm.
– They left early so as to avoid traffic.
“So as to” is generally used in more formal contexts and is less common in everyday speech.
Other Purpose Conjunctions
In addition to the three main purpose conjunctions mentioned above, there are several other conjunctions and phrases that can be used to express purpose.
Lest
“Lest” is a somewhat archaic conjunction that means “for fear that” or “in case.” It is often followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood.
Examples:
– She tiptoed lest she wake the sleeping baby.
– He took an umbrella lest it rain.
– They whispered lest they be overheard.
While “lest” is not commonly used in modern English, it can still be found in literary texts and formal writing.
For the Purpose of
“For the purpose of” is a phrase that explicitly states the reason or intention behind an action. It is followed by a gerund (verb ending in -ing).
Examples:
– She took the course for the purpose of improving her skills.
– They held meetings for the purpose of discussing the new policy.
– He saved money for the purpose of buying a house.
This phrase is quite formal and is often used in official documents and legal writing.
Using Purpose Conjunctions in Complex Sentences
Purpose conjunctions are often used to create complex sentences that combine an independent clause with a dependent clause that expresses purpose. Understanding how to structure these sentences is crucial for clear and effective communication.
Positioning of Purpose Clauses
Purpose clauses can appear either at the beginning or at the end of a sentence. However, the placement can sometimes affect the emphasis of the sentence.
Examples:
– She brought an umbrella so that she wouldn’t get wet. (Purpose clause at the end)
– So that she wouldn’t get wet, she brought an umbrella. (Purpose clause at the beginning)
Both sentences are grammatically correct, but placing the purpose clause at the beginning can add a slight emphasis on the reason for the action.
Negating Purpose Conjunctions
When negating purpose conjunctions, especially with “so that,” it’s common to use “not” or “never” to convey the intended meaning.
Examples:
– He left early so that he would not miss the bus.
– She saved money in order to not have financial problems in the future.
– They spoke quietly so as to not disturb the meeting.
Negation in purpose conjunctions helps to clarify that the action taken was meant to prevent a certain outcome.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even advanced English learners can sometimes make mistakes when using purpose conjunctions. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them.
Using the Wrong Conjunction
Choosing the incorrect conjunction can change the meaning of a sentence or make it unclear.
Incorrect: He exercises every day because he might stay healthy. (Cause)
Correct: He exercises every day so that he might stay healthy. (Purpose)
To avoid this mistake, make sure you understand the difference between cause-and-effect conjunctions (like “because”) and purpose conjunctions.
Incorrect Verb Forms
Using the wrong verb form after a purpose conjunction can make the sentence grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect: She studies hard in order getting good grades.
Correct: She studies hard in order to get good grades.
Remember that “in order to” and “so as to” should be followed by the base form of the verb.
Overuse of Purpose Conjunctions
While purpose conjunctions are useful, overusing them can make your writing repetitive and awkward.
Incorrect: He brought an umbrella so that he wouldn’t get wet. She brought an umbrella so that she wouldn’t get wet.
Correct: He brought an umbrella so that he wouldn’t get wet, and so did she.
Using a variety of sentence structures and conjunctions will make your writing more engaging.
Practice Exercises
To master the use of purpose conjunctions, it’s important to practice. Here are some exercises to help you get started.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with the appropriate purpose conjunction (“so that,” “in order to,” “so as to”).
1. She is learning French ______ she can travel to Paris.
2. He turned off the lights ______ save electricity.
3. They left the party early ______ avoid traffic.
4. I brought a jacket ______ I wouldn’t be cold.
5. She studied all night ______ pass the exam.
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences to include a purpose conjunction.
1. He saved money. He wanted to buy a new car.
2. She went to the gym. She wanted to lose weight.
3. They whispered. They didn’t want to wake the baby.
4. I took a taxi. I wanted to get there on time.
5. He works hard. He wants to succeed.
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
Find and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
1. She brought a map in order finding her way.
2. He left early so as that he wouldn’t be late.
3. They studied hard because they could pass the exam.
4. She took notes in order to not forget the details.
5. He speaks quietly so as to not disturb others.
Conclusion
Purpose conjunctions are invaluable tools in the English language, enabling us to articulate the reasons behind our actions clearly and effectively. By mastering the use of conjunctions like “so that,” “in order to,” and “so as to,” you can add depth and clarity to your communication. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to common mistakes to improve your proficiency. With time and effort, you’ll find that using purpose conjunctions becomes second nature, enhancing both your writing and speaking skills.
