Conjunctions are an essential part of any language as they help to connect words, phrases, or clauses, making our speech and writing more coherent and fluid. Among the various types of conjunctions, conjunctions of purpose play a crucial role. They help indicate the reason or purpose behind an action. For language learners, understanding and using conjunctions of purpose correctly can significantly improve both written and spoken communication. This article will delve into the various conjunctions of purpose in English, their usage, and examples to help you master this aspect of the language.
Understanding Conjunctions of Purpose
Conjunctions of purpose are used to express the intention or goal of an action. They answer the question “Why?” or “For what purpose?” These conjunctions are vital for constructing complex sentences that provide clear and precise explanations. Some of the most common conjunctions of purpose in English include “so that,” “in order to,” “for the purpose of,” “so as to,” and “lest.”
So That
“So that” is one of the most frequently used conjunctions of purpose in English. It is used to indicate that one action is taken to achieve a specific result. The structure usually involves two clauses: the main clause and the purpose clause.
**Example:**
– I set my alarm early *so that* I could catch the first train.
In this example, the purpose of setting the alarm early is to catch the first train.
**Usage Tips:**
1. “So that” is often followed by a modal verb like “can,” “could,” “will,” or “would.”
2. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
In Order To
“In order to” is another common conjunction of purpose and is often used in more formal contexts. It indicates that an action is taken with a specific intention or goal in mind.
**Example:**
– She studied hard *in order to* pass the exam.
In this sentence, the purpose of studying hard is to pass the exam.
**Usage Tips:**
1. “In order to” is followed by the base form of the verb (infinitive form).
2. It is more formal than “so that” and is often used in written English.
For the Purpose Of
“For the purpose of” is a formal conjunction of purpose used to indicate that an action is done with a specific goal in mind.
**Example:**
– The company implemented new policies *for the purpose of* improving employee productivity.
Here, the purpose of implementing new policies is to improve employee productivity.
**Usage Tips:**
1. This phrase is often used in formal writing, such as academic papers or official documents.
2. It is followed by a gerund (verb + ing).
So As To
“So as to” is similar to “in order to” and is used to indicate purpose. It is slightly more formal than “in order to” and often appears in written English.
**Example:**
– He lowered his voice *so as to* not disturb the meeting.
In this example, the purpose of lowering his voice is to avoid disturbing the meeting.
**Usage Tips:**
1. “So as to” is followed by the base form of the verb.
2. It is generally used in more formal contexts.
Lest
“Lest” is an old-fashioned conjunction of purpose that is still used in some formal or literary contexts. It means “to prevent” or “to avoid the risk of.”
**Example:**
– She wore a coat, *lest* she catch a cold.
In this sentence, wearing a coat is done to avoid the risk of catching a cold.
**Usage Tips:**
1. “Lest” is followed by a base form of the verb without “to.”
2. It is often used in negative constructions to indicate prevention.
Conjunctions of Purpose in Complex Sentences
Conjunctions of purpose are often used to form complex sentences, which contain an independent clause and a dependent clause. The dependent clause explains the purpose of the action in the independent clause.
**Example:**
– Independent Clause: I saved money.
– Dependent Clause: So that I could buy a new car.
Combined: I saved money *so that* I could buy a new car.
Using conjunctions of purpose in complex sentences helps to provide a clearer and more detailed explanation of why an action is taken.
Examples of Complex Sentences with Conjunctions of Purpose
1. She took a day off *in order to* relax and recharge.
2. They moved to a new city *for the purpose of* finding better job opportunities.
3. He adjusted the microphone *so as to* ensure everyone could hear him clearly.
4. She wrote down the instructions *so that* she wouldn’t forget them.
5. The team practiced every day *lest* they lose the championship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While using conjunctions of purpose, learners often make some common mistakes. Being aware of these can help you avoid them and use these conjunctions more effectively.
Incorrect Word Order
One common mistake is using the incorrect word order when constructing sentences with conjunctions of purpose.
**Incorrect:**
– She left early *so that* could she avoid traffic.
**Correct:**
– She left early *so that* she could avoid traffic.
Using the Wrong Conjunction
Another mistake is using the wrong conjunction for the context, which can change the meaning of the sentence.
**Incorrect:**
– He set an alarm *for the purpose of* not being late. (This sounds awkward and overly formal for the context.)
**Correct:**
– He set an alarm *so that* he wouldn’t be late.
Omitting Necessary Words
Learners sometimes omit necessary words, leading to incomplete or incorrect sentences.
**Incorrect:**
– She brought an umbrella *so* not to get wet.
**Correct:**
– She brought an umbrella *so as not to* get wet.
Overusing Formal Conjunctions
Using overly formal conjunctions in casual conversation can make your speech sound unnatural.
**Incorrect (for casual conversation):**
– I’m going to the store *for the purpose of* buying milk.
**Correct (for casual conversation):**
– I’m going to the store *to* buy milk.
Practice Exercises
To master conjunctions of purpose, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you get started:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate conjunction of purpose:
1. She wore sunglasses __________ protect her eyes from the sun.
2. He took notes __________ he wouldn’t forget the details.
3. They moved to the city __________ find better job opportunities.
4. She checked her work twice __________ avoid any mistakes.
5. He whispered __________ not to wake the baby.
Exercise 2: Sentence Construction
Combine the following pairs of sentences using conjunctions of purpose:
1. She is saving money. She wants to buy a new laptop.
2. He left early. He wanted to catch the first bus.
3. They are studying hard. They want to pass the exam.
4. She brought a jacket. She didn’t want to get cold.
5. He called the restaurant. He wanted to make a reservation.
Exercise 3: Correction
Correct the following sentences:
1. She brought an umbrella so as not get wet.
2. He practiced every day for the purpose to improve his skills.
3. She left early so that could avoid the traffic.
4. He is going to the store for to buy groceries.
5. They moved to the city lest they can find better opportunities.
Answers to Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
1. She wore sunglasses *to* protect her eyes from the sun.
2. He took notes *so that* he wouldn’t forget the details.
3. They moved to the city *to* find better job opportunities.
4. She checked her work twice *to* avoid any mistakes.
5. He whispered *so as* not to wake the baby.
Exercise 2: Sentence Construction
1. She is saving money *so that* she can buy a new laptop.
2. He left early *in order to* catch the first bus.
3. They are studying hard *to* pass the exam.
4. She brought a jacket *lest* she get cold.
5. He called the restaurant *so as to* make a reservation.
Exercise 3: Correction
1. She brought an umbrella *so as not to* get wet.
2. He practiced every day *in order to* improve his skills.
3. She left early *so that* she could avoid the traffic.
4. He is going to the store *to* buy groceries.
5. They moved to the city *so that* they could find better opportunities.
Conclusion
Mastering conjunctions of purpose is crucial for effective communication in English. These conjunctions help you explain the reasons behind your actions clearly and precisely. By understanding the different conjunctions of purpose and their correct usage, you can improve both your written and spoken English. Remember to practice regularly, pay attention to common mistakes, and apply what you’ve learned in real-life situations. With time and effort, you’ll find that using conjunctions of purpose becomes second nature, enhancing your overall language skills.
