Conjunctions are fundamental in English, serving as the glue that holds our sentences together. They allow us to connect ideas, show relationships, and express various shades of meaning. Among these versatile connectors, conjunctions that express *purpose* play a crucial role. They enable speakers and writers to clarify why something happens, what the intended outcome is, or the reason behind an action. Mastering these conjunctions can significantly enhance your fluency and precision in English. In this article, we will explore various conjunctions that express purpose, their usage, and provide examples to help you understand and apply them effectively.
Understanding Purpose Conjunctions
Purpose conjunctions are words or phrases that link clauses to express the reason or purpose behind an action. They answer questions like “Why?” or “For what purpose?” By using these conjunctions, you can make your communication more coherent and logical.
Common Conjunctions that Express Purpose
1. **So that**
2. **In order to**
3. **So as to**
4. **For the purpose of**
5. **In case**
6. **Lest**
7. **So**
Let’s delve deeper into each of these conjunctions, providing explanations and examples to illustrate their use.
1. So that
“So that” is one of the most commonly used conjunctions to express purpose. It is used to show the reason for doing something, often followed by a subject and a modal verb (such as can, could, will, or would).
**Example:**
– I brought an umbrella so that I wouldn’t get wet.
– She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.
In these sentences, “so that” connects the action with its purpose, making the intention clear.
2. In order to
“In order to” is a formal way of expressing purpose. It is often used in academic writing, official documents, and more formal speech. This conjunction is followed by the base form of the verb (infinitive).
**Example:**
– He moved to the city in order to find a better job.
– They organized the event in order to raise awareness about climate change.
Using “in order to” adds a level of formality and clarity to your statements, making them more precise.
3. So as to
“So as to” is similar to “in order to” and is also used in more formal contexts. It is followed by the base form of the verb (infinitive) and is often used to emphasize the purpose of an action.
**Example:**
– She whispered so as to not wake the baby.
– He left early so as to avoid traffic.
“So as to” can be seen as slightly more emphatic than “in order to,” often used when the purpose is significant.
4. For the purpose of
“For the purpose of” is a phrase that clearly states the reason behind an action. It is followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb).
**Example:**
– The committee was formed for the purpose of improving community services.
– He took a course for the purpose of enhancing his skills.
This phrase is particularly useful in formal writing and when you need to explicitly state the purpose.
5. In case
“In case” is used to describe a precaution or a measure taken to prevent something from happening. It often refers to an action done to prepare for a possible future event.
**Example:**
– Take an umbrella in case it rains.
– She took a sweater in case it got cold.
Using “in case” helps to convey a sense of preparedness or anticipation of potential outcomes.
6. Lest
“Lest” is an old-fashioned conjunction that means “for fear that” or “to avoid the risk of.” It is often used in a more literary or formal context and is followed by the base form of the verb.
**Example:**
– He spoke softly lest he disturb the sleeping child.
– She was cautious lest she make a mistake.
Though not commonly used in everyday speech, “lest” adds a poetic or formal touch to the expression of purpose.
7. So
“So” is a versatile conjunction that can also be used to express purpose, though it is more commonly used to show results or consequences. When used to express purpose, it is often followed by a subject and a modal verb.
**Example:**
– She set an alarm so she would wake up on time.
– He practiced daily so he could improve his skills.
“So” is less formal than “so that” but still effectively conveys the intended purpose.
Practical Tips for Using Purpose Conjunctions
To effectively incorporate purpose conjunctions into your writing and speech, consider the following tips:
1. **Match the Form with the Context:** Choose the appropriate conjunction based on the formality of the context. For formal writing, prefer “in order to,” “so as to,” or “for the purpose of.” For informal contexts, “so that” and “so” are suitable.
2. **Use Modal Verbs Appropriately:** When using “so that” or “so,” remember to follow them with a subject and a modal verb to indicate the intended action or outcome.
3. **Be Clear and Concise:** Ensure that the purpose is clearly stated and that the conjunction accurately reflects the relationship between the action and its purpose.
4. **Practice with Examples:** Regularly practice constructing sentences with these conjunctions to become more comfortable and confident in their usage.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While using purpose conjunctions, learners often make certain mistakes. Here are some common errors and tips to avoid them:
1. Mixing Up “So” and “So That”
**Mistake:** Using “so” when “so that” is more appropriate.
**Correction:** Use “so that” to clearly express purpose, especially in formal writing.
**Example:**
– Incorrect: She took notes so she remember the lecture.
– Correct: She took notes so that she could remember the lecture.
2. Omitting the Modal Verb
**Mistake:** Forgetting to include a modal verb after “so that” or “so.”
**Correction:** Always pair “so that” and “so” with a modal verb to indicate the intended outcome.
**Example:**
– Incorrect: He left early so that he avoid traffic.
– Correct: He left early so that he could avoid traffic.
3. Overusing Formal Conjunctions in Informal Contexts
**Mistake:** Using “in order to” or “so as to” in casual conversations.
**Correction:** Reserve formal conjunctions for appropriate contexts and use simpler ones like “so that” or “so” in everyday speech.
**Example:**
– Incorrect (informal context): I’m going to the store in order to buy milk.
– Correct (informal context): I’m going to the store so I can buy milk.
Advanced Usage and Varieties
For more advanced learners, understanding the nuances and variations of purpose conjunctions can further refine your language skills.
Combining Purpose Conjunctions
Sometimes, you may find it useful to combine purpose conjunctions to add complexity and depth to your sentences.
**Example:**
– She took extra classes so that she would be well-prepared in case she faced difficult questions in the exam.
In this sentence, “so that” and “in case” are combined to express both preparation and precaution.
Using Synonyms and Alternatives
Expanding your vocabulary by using synonyms and alternatives for purpose conjunctions can make your language more varied and interesting.
**Examples:**
– Instead of “so that,” you can use “to ensure that”: She studied hard to ensure that she would pass the exam.
– Instead of “in order to,” you can use “to”: He moved to the city to find a better job.
Experimenting with Sentence Structures
Playing with sentence structures can also help you become more versatile in using purpose conjunctions.
**Example:**
– Standard: She saved money so that she could travel.
– Alternative: To travel, she saved money.
In the alternative structure, the purpose is mentioned at the beginning, creating a different emphasis.
Exercises and Practice
To solidify your understanding of purpose conjunctions, try the following exercises:
Exercise 1: Sentence Completion
Complete the sentences using the appropriate purpose conjunction.
1. He set an alarm ____ he wouldn’t oversleep.
2. They organized the meeting ____ discuss the new project.
3. She took an umbrella ____ it started raining.
4. He moved to the city ____ find better job opportunities.
5. She practiced daily ____ she could improve her skills.
Exercise 2: Sentence Transformation
Rewrite the sentences using a different purpose conjunction without changing the meaning.
1. She saved money so that she could buy a new car.
2. He left early in order to catch the first train.
3. They brought extra food in case more guests arrived.
4. She spoke quietly so as to not disturb anyone.
5. He wore a jacket lest he catch a cold.
Exercise 3: Error Correction
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.
1. He studied hard so he pass the test.
2. She took notes in order she remembers the lecture.
3. He brought a map in case of he gets lost.
4. She left early so as avoid traffic.
5. He practiced daily for the purpose improve his skills.
Conclusion
Conjunctions that express purpose are essential tools in the English language, enabling you to clearly communicate the reasons behind actions and intentions. By mastering these conjunctions—such as “so that,” “in order to,” “so as to,” “for the purpose of,” “in case,” “lest,” and “so”—you can enhance the clarity, coherence, and sophistication of your speech and writing. Remember to practice regularly, pay attention to context and formality, and experiment with different structures to become proficient in their use. Happy learning!