Clauses of purpose

Question 1

To + infinitive

Answer 1

The most common way to express purpose in English.

1. The student worked hard to pass the test.

Question 2

In order to/so as to + infinitive

Answer 2

are more common in formal English.

1. We were asked to stay in order to finish the project.
2. He left home early in order not to be late.

Question 3

So that + clause

Answer 3

to express purpose

1. We left early so that we could park near the centre.

Question 4

For + noun

Answer 4

we can also use for + noun to express purpose.

1. We went to the bar for a drink.

Question 4

for + ing

Answer 4

to talk about the purpose of an object or action when we use the verb used or when we imply it.

1. This knife is (used) for cutting plastic.

2.Schools are for educating, not for entertaining.

Question 5

In case + clause

Answer 5

We use this form to talk about precautions, when we do something because something we don’t want might happen.

1. Take an umbrella in case it rains. (=Take an umbrella so that you won’t get wet if it rains)

2.I won’t tell Ann in case she tells everyone else