Conjunctions play a crucial role in English, acting as bridges that link clauses, sentences, and phrases. Among the various types of conjunctions, one of the most interesting and useful categories is the conjunctions of purpose. These conjunctions help us express the reason or purpose behind an action or a state. Understanding and using them correctly can significantly improve your writing and speaking skills, making your communication clearer and more effective.
What Are Conjunctions of Purpose?
Conjunctions of purpose are used to join clauses in a sentence where one clause explains the reason or purpose of the action mentioned in the other clause. These conjunctions provide answers to the question “Why?” or “For what purpose?”. Common conjunctions of purpose include “so that,” “in order that,” “for the purpose of,” “in order to,” and “so as to.”
Common Conjunctions of Purpose
Let’s delve deeper into some of the most commonly used conjunctions of purpose:
So that: This is perhaps the most frequently used conjunction of purpose. It is used to explain why something is done.
Example: “She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.”
In order that: This conjunction is somewhat formal and is often used in written English. It serves the same purpose as “so that.”
Example: “They left early in order that they might catch the first train.”
For the purpose of: This conjunction is more formal and is generally used in academic or professional contexts.
Example: “The experiment was conducted for the purpose of testing the new hypothesis.”
In order to: This is a versatile conjunction that can be used both in formal and informal contexts. It is often interchangeable with “so as to.”
Example: “He worked overtime in order to finish the project on time.”
So as to: This is another conjunction that serves a similar function to “in order to.” It is slightly more formal.
Example: “She left the door open so as to hear the baby crying.”
How to Use Conjunctions of Purpose
Understanding how to use conjunctions of purpose correctly can elevate your language skills. Here are some tips and guidelines:
Using “So That”
“So that” is commonly used in both spoken and written English. It usually requires a subject and a verb after it. The clause introduced by “so that” often contains a modal verb like “can,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “will,” or “would.”
Example: “I am saving money so that I can buy a new car.”
Note that in informal speech, “so that” is sometimes shortened to just “so.”
Example: “I turned on the heater so it wouldn’t be cold.”
Using “In Order That”
“In order that” is more formal and is often used in academic or professional writing. Similar to “so that,” it is followed by a subject and a verb and often includes a modal verb.
Example: “The researchers adjusted the variables in order that they might get accurate results.”
Using “For the Purpose of”
“For the purpose of” is used to indicate a specific aim or reason. It is usually followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb).
Example: “The meeting was scheduled for the purpose of discussing the new policy.”
Using “In Order To” and “So As To”
Both “in order to” and “so as to” are used before the base form of a verb (the infinitive). They are often interchangeable and can be used to express purpose in both formal and informal contexts.
Example: “She checked her work twice in order to avoid mistakes.”
Example: “He lowered his voice so as to not wake the baby.”
Differences Between Conjunctions of Purpose
While these conjunctions can sometimes be used interchangeably, there are subtle differences that can affect your choice depending on the context, formality, and nuance you wish to convey.
Formality
“In order that” and “for the purpose of” are more formal and are typically found in academic, legal, and professional contexts. “So that” and “in order to” are versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings. “So as to” is slightly more formal than “in order to.”
Example (formal): “The policy was implemented in order that employees might benefit.”
Example (informal): “I left early so that I could avoid traffic.”
Complexity
“For the purpose of” is often used in more complex sentences where a detailed explanation is needed. “So that” and “in order to” are generally used in simpler sentences.
Example (complex): “The committee was established for the purpose of overseeing the implementation of new regulations.”
Example (simple): “She exercised daily so that she could stay fit.”
Usage with Modals
“So that” and “in order that” are typically used with modal verbs like “can,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “will,” or “would,” adding a layer of necessity or possibility to the purpose clause.
Example: “He brought an umbrella so that he might not get wet.”
“In order to” and “so as to” do not require modals and are followed directly by the base form of a verb.
Example: “She studied hard in order to pass the exam.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even though conjunctions of purpose are relatively straightforward, learners often make mistakes when using them. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them:
Using the Wrong Conjunction
Learners sometimes use the wrong conjunction, leading to awkward or incorrect sentences.
Incorrect: “He left early for the purpose that he could catch the bus.”
Correct: “He left early so that he could catch the bus.”
Incorrect Verb Forms
Using the wrong verb form after conjunctions of purpose is another common error.
Incorrect: “She exercises every day so to stay healthy.”
Correct: “She exercises every day so as to stay healthy.”
Incorrect: “They met for the purpose to discuss the project.”
Correct: “They met for the purpose of discussing the project.”
Overusing Formal Conjunctions
Using formal conjunctions in casual or informal settings can make your language sound stilted or unnatural.
Incorrect (informal context): “I’m cooking dinner early in order that we might eat sooner.”
Correct (informal context): “I’m cooking dinner early so that we can eat sooner.”
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of conjunctions of purpose, here are some practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the correct conjunction of purpose:
1. She took a day off work ______ she could relax and recharge.
2. The company invested in new technology ______ improve productivity.
3. He moved to the city ______ find better job opportunities.
4. The teacher explained the concept again ______ the students would understand it better.
5. We need to leave now ______ catch the last train.
Answers:
1. so that
2. in order to
3. so as to
4. in order that
5. in order to
Conclusion
Conjunctions of purpose are essential tools for clear and effective communication. By mastering “so that,” “in order that,” “for the purpose of,” “in order to,” and “so as to,” you can add depth and precision to your language. Remember to consider the formality and complexity of your context when choosing the appropriate conjunction. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to use conjunctions of purpose confidently and correctly in your writing and speaking.
