Conjunctions are essential tools in the English language, acting as the glue that holds sentences together and enhances coherence and flow in writing and speech. Among the various types of conjunctions, conjunctions of purpose serve the specific function of indicating the reason or intention behind an action. Understanding and using these conjunctions correctly can greatly improve your ability to express intentions and purposes in English. This article will delve into the various conjunctions of purpose, their correct usage, and provide examples to illustrate their application.
Understanding Conjunctions of Purpose
Conjunctions of purpose are used to show the purpose or reason for an action. They answer the question “why?” and are essential for adding clarity to your sentences. The most common conjunctions of purpose in English include: so that, in order that, so as to, in order to, and lest. Each of these conjunctions has its own specific usage and nuances.
So That
The conjunction so that is used to express purpose and is often followed by a modal verb like can, could, may, or might. It indicates the intention behind an action.
**Examples:**
– She saved money so that she could buy a new car.
– I am studying hard so that I can pass the exam.
In these examples, “so that” is used to explain the purpose of saving money and studying hard.
In Order That
Similar to so that, the conjunction in order that is also used to express purpose. It is more formal and often used in written English. It is also followed by a modal verb.
**Examples:**
– The government is increasing taxes in order that they might reduce the deficit.
– She left early in order that she could catch the first train.
In these sentences, “in order that” explains the purpose behind increasing taxes and leaving early.
So As To
The conjunction so as to is used to express purpose and is always followed by an infinitive verb. It is slightly more formal than simply using to.
**Examples:**
– He whispered so as not to wake the baby.
– She exercises regularly so as to stay healthy.
Here, “so as to” is used to explain the purpose of whispering and exercising.
In Order To
The conjunction in order to is another way to express purpose and is followed by an infinitive verb. It is often interchangeable with “so as to,” but it is slightly more formal.
**Examples:**
– He left early in order to avoid the traffic.
– She moved to the city in order to find a better job.
In these examples, “in order to” indicates the reason behind leaving early and moving to the city.
Lest
The conjunction lest is less common in modern English but is still used, particularly in formal or literary contexts. It means “to prevent something from happening” and is followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood.
**Examples:**
– She wore a raincoat lest she get wet.
– He spoke softly lest he be overheard.
In these sentences, “lest” indicates the action taken to prevent getting wet and being overheard.
Choosing the Right Conjunction of Purpose
Choosing the correct conjunction of purpose depends on the context, formality, and the relationship between the clauses. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:
1. **Formality**: Use so that and in order that in more formal contexts. In order to and so as to are also formal but can be used in less formal contexts as well.
2. **Verb Form**: So that and in order that are followed by a clause with a modal verb. So as to and in order to are followed by an infinitive verb.
3. **Preventive Actions**: Use lest when you want to express preventive actions, especially in formal or literary contexts.
Practical Exercises
To solidify your understanding of conjunctions of purpose, it’s important to practice using them in sentences. Below are a few exercises to help you practice.
**Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks**
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate conjunction of purpose:
1. She studied hard ______ she could pass the exam.
2. He left early ______ catch the first train.
3. They are saving money ______ they can buy a new house.
4. She spoke quietly ______ not to disturb anyone.
5. He checked his work twice ______ he might make a mistake.
**Answers:**
1. so that
2. in order to
3. so that
4. so as
5. lest
**Exercise 2: Sentence Transformation**
Rewrite the following sentences using the given conjunction of purpose:
1. She wore a hat. She didn’t want to get sunburned. (so as to)
2. He saved money. He wanted to buy a new car. (in order to)
3. They left early. They didn’t want to miss the flight. (lest)
4. She studied hard. She wanted to get a scholarship. (in order that)
5. He spoke softly. He didn’t want to wake the baby. (so that)
**Answers:**
1. She wore a hat so as to avoid getting sunburned.
2. He saved money in order to buy a new car.
3. They left early lest they miss the flight.
4. She studied hard in order that she might get a scholarship.
5. He spoke softly so that he wouldn’t wake the baby.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Using conjunctions of purpose correctly can be tricky, and learners often make mistakes. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them:
1. **Using the Wrong Conjunction**: Ensure you choose the right conjunction based on the context and formality. For instance, “so that” is more casual compared to “in order that”.
2. **Incorrect Verb Form**: Pay attention to the verb form that follows the conjunction. “So as to” and “in order to” should be followed by an infinitive verb, while “so that” and “in order that” are followed by a clause with a modal verb.
3. **Overusing Conjunctions**: Avoid using the same conjunction repeatedly in your writing. Mix them up to add variety and sophistication to your sentences.
4. **Ignoring Formality**: Be mindful of the formality of your context. Use more formal conjunctions like “in order that” in academic or professional writing, and more casual ones like “so that” in everyday conversation.
Advanced Usage
For advanced learners, it’s important to understand the subtle differences and more nuanced uses of conjunctions of purpose. Here are a few tips to elevate your language skills:
1. **Complex Sentences**: Use conjunctions of purpose in complex sentences to add depth and clarity to your writing. For example, “She took a deep breath and gathered her thoughts so that she could deliver her speech with confidence.”
2. **Varied Sentence Structures**: Experiment with different sentence structures to see how the meaning changes. For example, “He exercised regularly so as to stay healthy” vs. “He exercised regularly in order to stay healthy.”
3. **Contextual Nuances**: Be aware of the slight differences in meaning and usage. For example, “lest” is specifically used to express preventive actions and is often found in more formal or literary texts.
Conclusion
Conjunctions of purpose are invaluable tools in the English language, allowing you to express reasons and intentions clearly and effectively. By understanding the various conjunctions of purpose, their correct usage, and practicing with exercises, you can greatly enhance your language skills. Remember to choose the right conjunction based on the context, verb form, and formality, and avoid common mistakes to ensure your sentences are clear and coherent. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the use of conjunctions of purpose and elevate your English language proficiency.
