Purpose Clause
A purpose clause is a dependent clause that indicates the purpose or intention behind the
action of the main clause. It answers the question "Why?" regarding the action in the main
clause. Purpose clauses are often introduced by specific conjunctions.
Types of Purpose Clause Indicators
To + Base Form of the Verb
This construction is one of the most common ways to express purpose.
Example:
She studies hard to pass her exams.
(Purpose: To pass her exams)
In Order to + Base Form of the Verb
This phrase is slightly more formal and emphasizes the intention.
Example:
He saves money in order to buy a new car.
(Purpose: To buy a new car)
So as to + Base Form of the Verb
Similar in meaning to "in order to," but often used in more formal contexts.
Example:
They left early so as to avoid traffic.
(Purpose: To avoid traffic)
So that + Subject + Modal Verb
This structure is used when the purpose is followed by a subject and a verb, often involving a
modal verb like can, could, may, might, will, or would.
Example:
She exercises regularly so that she can stay healthy.
(Purpose: So that she can stay healthy)
In Order that + Subject + Modal Verb
This is a more formal alternative to "so that."
Example:
He studies every night in order that he may excel in his career.
(Purpose: In order that he may excel in his career)
Summary of Purpose Clause Indicators
Indicator Example
To He runs to get fit.
In order to She works overtime in order to save money.
So as to They spoke quietly so as to not disturb others.
So that I left early so that I could catch the bus.
In order that We plan carefully in order that we might succeed.
Conclusion
Purpose clauses are crucial for expressing intentions and goals in English. By using the
appropriate conjunctions, speakers can clearly convey why actions are taken. Understanding
these structures can enhance both written and spoken communication.
Detailed Explanations
1. To + Base Form of the Verb
Characteristics:
This is the simplest form and is very common in both spoken and written English.
It directly links the action to the intended purpose.
Usage:
Used in informal and formal contexts.
Often found in sentences where the subject of the main clause and the purpose clause are the
same.
Example:
She practices every day to improve her skills. (Purpose: She practices with the intention of
improving her skills.)
2. In Order to + Base Form of the Verb
Characteristics:
Slightly more formal than "to."
Emphasizes intention and purpose more explicitly.
Usage: Commonly used in written English, particularly in essays and formal documents.
Suitable when the purpose needs to be highlighted.
Example:
He adjusts his schedule in order to make time for his family.
(Purpose: He makes adjustments specifically to create time for his family.)
3. So as to + Base Form of the Verb
Characteristics:
Similar in meaning to "in order to," but often used in more formal contexts.
Indicates intention clearly.
Usage:
Used in formal writing or speech.
Often interchangeable with "in order to," but can imply a greater effort to achieve the purpose.
Example:
She studies late into the night so as to finish her project on time.
(Purpose: She studies late with the intention of finishing her project punctually.)
4. So that + Subject + Modal Verb
Characteristics:
Introduces a purpose clause that includes a subject and a modal verb (can, could, may, might,
will, would).
Indicates a desired outcome or result.
Usage:
Useful when the purpose involves an action that can be performed by someone else or implies
a condition or possibility.
Common in both spoken and written English.
Example:
He speaks clearly so that everyone can understand him.
(Purpose: He speaks clearly with the intention that everyone is able to understand him.)
5. In Order that + Subject + Modal Verb
Characteristics:
A more formal alternative to "so that." Similar in structure and function to "so that."
Usage:
Typically used in formal writing or speeches.
Emphasizes the purpose or intention more strongly.
Example:
They are saving money in order that they may travel abroad next year.
(Purpose: They are saving money with the intention of being able to travel abroad next year.)
Summary of Usage Contexts
Conjunction Formality Level When to Use
To Informal/Formal General use, especially when subject is the same.
In order to Formal When emphasizing purpose, especially in writing.
So as to Formal To indicate a clear intention, often in formal contexts.
So that Informal/Forma When the purpose involves another subject or
condition.
In order that Formal For emphasis in formal contexts, similar to "so that."
Conclusion
Understanding the distinct characteristics and appropriate contexts for using each purpose
clause conjunction allows for clearer and more effective communication. This knowledge helps
convey intentions accurately, whether in everyday conversation or formal writing.
Examples of "So That"
Everyday Use: She wears a jacket so that she doesn’t get cold.
(Casual context; focuses on the immediate intention.)
Casual Conversation:
I’m saving money so that I can buy a new phone. (Direct and straightforward; common in
spoken language.)
Practical Context:
They moved closer to the city so that they could reduce their commute. (Emphasizes the
practical outcome of the move.)
Examples of "In Order That"
Formal Context:
The committee has implemented new measures in order that the project can proceed
smoothly. (More formal; emphasizes the intention behind the measures.)
Written Communication:
He took an extra course in order that he might gain a deeper understanding of the subject.
(Formal tone; highlights the purpose with a greater sense of effort.)
Emphasis on Intention:
We are conducting research in order that we can find a solution to the problem.
(Focuses on the intention behind the research, suitable for reports or proposals.)
Comparison of Similar Sentences
Casual vs. Formal:
He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.
He studied hard in order that he might pass the exam.
(The first is more conversational, while the second is more formal and emphasizes the effort
involved.)
Direct vs. Emphasized Intention:
I left early so that I could avoid the traffic.
I left early in order that I might avoid the traffic.
(The first focuses on the action, while the second emphasizes the intended outcome more
formally.)
Conclusion
In summary, "so that" is commonly used in everyday language and emphasizes practical
outcomes, while "in order that" carries a more formal tone and emphasizes intention. Choosing
between them depends on the context and the level of formality desired.
