How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English: A Complete Guide

Want to clearly explain why you do something? Learning how to use clauses of purpose in English is key. These clauses, using words like “to,” “so that,” and “in order to,” help you express your goals and intentions precisely. This guide will walk you through the rules, provide numerous examples, and offer tips to master this essential grammar topic for both daily communication and competitive exams.

Introduction to How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English

Mastering grammatical structures is vital for achieving fluency, and understanding how to use clauses of purpose in English is a fundamental part of this journey. Whether you are writing an essay, giving a presentation, or simply having a conversation, you often need to explain the reason behind an action. Clauses of purpose serve this exact function, allowing you to articulate your aims and objectives with clarity and precision. This comprehensive article will demystify the rules, provide extensive examples, and equip you with the knowledge to use them confidently.

How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English: The Rules

A clause of purpose states the aim or goal of the action in the main clause. They answer the question “Why?” or “For what purpose?”.

The primary connectors used are:

1. To, In order to, So as to: These are followed by the base form of the verb (the infinitive without ‘to’). They are used when the subject of the main clause and the purpose clause is the same.
   • Example: She studies hard to succeed.
   • “In order to” and “so as to” are more formal than “to”. “So as to” is less common.
2. So that, In order that: These are followed by a clause with a subject and a verb. They are used when the subject of the main clause and the purpose clause are different. Often used with modal verbs like can, could, will, would, may, might.
   • Example: She studies hard so that she can succeed.
   • “In order that” is very formal.
3. For: Used with a noun phrase to express purpose.
   • Example: This is a tool for cutting metal.

Important Tips for Students and Exam Candidates

• Formality Matters: In competitive exams, recognize the tone. Use “in order to” or “so that” for formal contexts. “To” is perfect for informal sentences.
• Subject Consistency is Key: The most common error is using “to” when the subjects are different. Incorrect: He opened the door for the cat to get out. (Informally accepted, but grammatically the cat isn’t “getting out”). Correct: He opened the door so that the cat could get out.
• Negative Purpose: To express a negative purpose (“to avoid something”), use “so as not to” or “in order not to”. Using “not to” alone is often considered incorrect in formal writing.
  • Example: She left early so as not to be late.
• Modal Verb Agreement: After “so that,” use the correct modal verb. “Can” and “will” are for present/future; “could” and “would” for past.

100 Examples of How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English

1. I woke up early to catch the sunrise.
2. He works hard to provide for his family.
3. She goes to the gym to stay fit.
4. We read books to gain knowledge.
5. They saved money to buy a new house.
6. I am calling to confirm my appointment.
7. He used a map to find the way.
8. She took a taxi to arrive on time.
9. We built a fence to protect the garden.
10. He spoke slowly to be understood.
11. She studies every day in order to pass the exam.
12. They left early in order to avoid the traffic.
13. We must act now in order to prevent a disaster.
14. He double-checked his work in order to ensure accuracy.
15. She lowered her voice in order not to wake the baby.
16. He exercises regularly so as to maintain his health.
17. Please remain seated so as not to cause a disturbance.
18. I turned off the phone so as to concentrate.
19. She locked the door so as to feel secure.
20. We must reduce costs so as to increase profit.
21. He works hard so that his family can live comfortably.
22. She explained the concept again so that everyone would understand.
23. I will send you the details so that you can review them.
24. He saved the document so that he wouldn’t lose his work.
25. They planted trees so that there would be more shade.
26. Speak loudly so that the people in the back can hear you.
27. She left a note so that her roommate would know where she was.
28. We bought a guidebook so that we could explore the city easily.
29. He took a course so that he might get a better job.
30. I am setting an alarm so that I don’t oversleep.
31. The company launched a new campaign so that it would attract more customers.
32. She practiced daily so that she could play the piece perfectly.
33. He invested wisely so that he would be secure in retirement.
34. They built a strong foundation so that the house would be stable.
35. We need to leave now so that we are not late.
36. The teacher simplified the instructions so that the children could follow them.
37. He spoke in a calm voice so that he wouldn’t frighten the animal.
38. She kept the receipt so that she could return the product if needed.
39. The government passed a law so that the environment would be protected.
40. I am learning French so that I can work in Paris.
41. He brought an umbrella so that he wouldn’t get wet.
42. She apologized so that he would not be angry.
43. We need to hire more staff so that the workload is manageable.
44. The team practiced set-pieces so that they might win the match.
45. He whispered so that only his friend could hear.
46. She donated money so that the charity could continue its work.
47. I will remind you so that you don’t forget.
48. They installed security cameras so that the building would be safe.
49. He ate a light breakfast so that he would be hungry for lunch.
50. She proofread her essay so that it would be free of errors.
51. This is a machine for washing clothes.
52. I need a box for storing old photographs.
53. This room is for meetings.
54. He brought a gift for you.
55. She had no reason for staying.
56. I need a tool for tightening this screw.
57. The funds are for building a new school.
58. What is this device for?
59. We have a separate bin for recycling.
60. He has a great talent for painting.
61. I study hard because I want to get good grades.
62. He is taking a course to improve his skills.
63. She went to the market to buy groceries.
64. We are collecting funds to help the victims.
65. They are protesting to demand their rights.
66. I am writing this article to help students.
67. He stood on a chair to see better.
68. She took a deep breath to calm down.
69. We need to hurry to catch our flight.
70. He listened carefully to understand the lecture.
71. In order to succeed, one must be persistent.
72. In order to win the race, you must train daily.
73. In order to make an omelette, you must break eggs.
74. In order that the project may be completed on time, we need more resources.
75. In order that no one feels left out, we will invite the whole team.
76. He left a message in order that I would call him back.
77. The law was passed in order that justice might be served.
78. So as to be fair, we will draw lots.
79. So as not to offend anyone, he avoided the topic.
80. She prepared notes so as to remember the key points.
81. He waited outside so as to speak with her privately.
82. So that there is no confusion, I will repeat the instructions.
83. So that he could afford the car, he took a loan.
84. She worked extra hours so that her children would have a good education.
85. The doctor prescribed medicine so that the patient would recover quickly.
86. I am making a list so that I remember everything.
87. He wore gloves so that his hands would be protected.
88. She learned to code so that she could build her own website.
89. They brought a first-aid kit so that they could handle emergencies.
90. We must conserve water so that future generations can have it.
91. For a quick meal, he ate a sandwich.
92. This brush is for cleaning bottles.
93. She has a natural ability for learning languages.
94. What is the purpose of this meeting?
95. The purpose of his visit was to inspect the property.
96. The main purpose of this article is to teach clauses of purpose.
97. With the purpose of enhancing his resume, he took a certification course.
98. For the purpose of this exercise, please work in pairs.
99. The meeting was arranged for the purpose of discussing the merger.
100. All our efforts are for the purpose of achieving excellence.

Conclusion on How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English

Mastering how to use clauses of purpose in English is a powerful step toward eloquent and precise communication. By understanding the distinction between “to,” “so that,” and their formal variants, you can accurately convey intentions in any context, from casual chats to formal reports and competitive exams. Regular practice with these structures will make their application second nature. We hope this guide has provided a clear and comprehensive understanding of how to use clauses of purpose in English effectively.

FAQs on How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English

1. What is the difference between ‘to’ and ‘so that’?
The key difference lies in the subject. Use “to” (or “in order to”) when the subject of the main action and the purpose is the same. Use “so that” when the subjects are different.

• Same Subject: I study to learn. (I study, I learn)
• Different Subjects: I study so that my teacher is happy. (I study, my teacher is happy)

2. Is ‘in order to’ the same as ‘to’?
Yes, in terms of meaning, they are the same. However, “in order to” is more formal and emphatic. “To” is more common in everyday spoken and written English.

3. How do I make a negative clause of purpose?
For negative purpose (to avoid doing something), use “so as not to” or “in order not to”. Avoid using “not to” alone in formal writing.

• Correct: She drove carefully so as not to have an accident.
• Incorrect (formal): She drove carefully not to have an accident.

Disclaimer on How to Use Clauses of Purpose in English

This article is intended for educational purposes. Grammar rules can have nuances and exceptions, and usage may vary in different forms of English (e.g., British vs. American). For high-stakes examinations, always refer to the specific guidelines and preferred style manuals.

Also Read: Mastering the Rules for Adjectives Order in English: A Definitive Guide

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