Conjunctions play a crucial role in constructing coherent and meaningful sentences in English. They help us connect ideas, clauses, and phrases to express complex thoughts clearly and effectively. One specific type of conjunction, known as conjunctions for purpose, is used to explain the reason or purpose behind an action. These conjunctions are essential for both spoken and written communication, enabling us to articulate our intentions and motivations accurately.
Understanding Conjunctions for Purpose
Conjunctions for purpose are a subset of subordinating conjunctions that connect a dependent clause (also known as a subordinate clause) to an independent clause. The dependent clause provides the purpose or reason for the action mentioned in the independent clause. Some common conjunctions for purpose include “so that,” “in order that,” “so as to,” and “for the purpose of.”
“So That”
The conjunction “so that” is frequently used to indicate the purpose of an action. It introduces a dependent clause that explains why something is done.
Example:
– She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.
– We arrived early so that we could get good seats.
In these examples, the dependent clauses “she could pass the exam” and “we could get good seats” explain the purpose of the actions mentioned in the independent clauses.
“In Order That”
“In order that” is another conjunction used to express purpose. It is more formal than “so that” and is often found in written English.
Example:
– The company invested in new technology in order that it could improve productivity.
– She saved money in order that she could travel abroad.
Here, the dependent clauses “it could improve productivity” and “she could travel abroad” provide the reasons for the actions mentioned in the independent clauses.
“So As To”
“So as to” is used to indicate the purpose of an action, but it is typically followed by an infinitive verb. This conjunction is also more formal and often used in written English.
Example:
– He left early so as to avoid traffic.
– She spoke quietly so as to not wake the baby.
In these sentences, “avoid traffic” and “not wake the baby” are infinitive phrases that explain the purpose of the actions.
“For the Purpose Of”
“For the purpose of” is a more formal way to express purpose. It is often used in academic or professional writing.
Example:
– The committee was formed for the purpose of improving community relations.
– The research was conducted for the purpose of finding a cure.
In these examples, “improving community relations” and “finding a cure” are the purposes of the actions mentioned in the independent clauses.
Usage and Examples
Understanding how to use conjunctions for purpose correctly is essential for clear communication. Let’s explore some more examples to see how these conjunctions function in different contexts.
Everyday Conversations
In everyday conversations, conjunctions for purpose help us explain why we do things. Here are some examples:
– I set an alarm so that I wouldn’t oversleep.
– She bought a new dress so that she could wear it to the party.
– They moved to the city in order that they could find better jobs.
In these sentences, the conjunctions for purpose help clarify the reasons behind the actions.
Academic Writing
In academic writing, conjunctions for purpose are used to explain the rationale behind research, experiments, or studies. Here are some examples:
– The experiment was designed so that the effects of the drug could be observed.
– The survey was conducted in order that the researchers could gather data on consumer behavior.
– The study was carried out for the purpose of understanding the impact of climate change on agriculture.
These conjunctions help convey the purpose of academic work clearly and precisely.
Professional Communication
In professional communication, conjunctions for purpose are used to explain the reasons behind decisions, actions, or strategies. Here are some examples:
– The company implemented new policies so that it could improve workplace safety.
– The marketing campaign was launched in order that the brand could reach a wider audience.
– The training program was developed for the purpose of enhancing employee skills.
Using conjunctions for purpose in professional settings helps articulate the objectives behind various initiatives.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While using conjunctions for purpose may seem straightforward, there are some common mistakes that learners often make. Let’s look at these mistakes and how to avoid them.
Incorrect Conjunction Choice
One common mistake is using the wrong conjunction for the context. For example, using “so that” in a formal academic paper might not be appropriate. Instead, “in order that” or “for the purpose of” would be more suitable.
Incorrect: The study was conducted so that we could understand the effects of pollution.
Correct: The study was conducted in order that we could understand the effects of pollution.
Misplacing the Dependent Clause
Another mistake is misplacing the dependent clause in a sentence. The dependent clause should follow the independent clause to clearly indicate the purpose.
Incorrect: So that she could pass the exam, she studied hard.
Correct: She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.
Using Infinitive Verbs Incorrectly
When using “so as to,” it is important to follow it with an infinitive verb. Sometimes learners mistakenly use a different verb form.
Incorrect: He left early so as to avoiding traffic.
Correct: He left early so as to avoid traffic.
Exercises and Practice
To master the use of conjunctions for purpose, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you practice using these conjunctions correctly.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences by choosing the correct conjunction for purpose.
1. She wore a raincoat ________ she wouldn’t get wet.
2. The teacher explained the topic again ________ the students could understand better.
3. He saved money ________ buy a new car.
4. The meeting was scheduled ________ discussing the new project.
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the sentences using a different conjunction for purpose.
1. They installed security cameras so that they could monitor the premises.
2. She practiced every day so as to improve her performance.
3. The new policy was introduced for the purpose of reducing costs.
Exercise 3: Create Your Own Sentences
Create your own sentences using the following conjunctions for purpose:
1. So that
2. In order that
3. So as to
4. For the purpose of
Conclusion
Conjunctions for purpose are essential tools in English that help us convey the reasons or intentions behind our actions. By understanding and using these conjunctions correctly, you can improve your communication skills and articulate your thoughts more clearly. Whether in everyday conversations, academic writing, or professional communication, these conjunctions enable you to express purpose effectively. Practice using them in different contexts to become more confident and proficient in your language skills.
