Purpose clauses begin with so as to, so that, in order to or in order that and explain what someone intends to do.
E.G. I study hard in order to get good marks.
Often, the to + infinitive is used to express purpose, and the conjunction is left out.
E.G. I study hard to get good marks.
To form a negative purpose clause, in order not to or so as not to is used before the infinitive.
E.G.They stood behind the tree so as not to be seen.
EXERCISE 1
Join the following pairs of sentences using a purpose clause and omitting the conjunction where you can. The first one is done for you.
1. I kept quiet. I didn’t want to be heard.
I kept quiet so as not to be heard.
2. She turned on the TV. She wanted to hear the news.
_______________________________.
3. He went to the park. He had to take the dog for a walk.
_______________________________.
4. Use olive oil. It gives the salad a better flavour.
_______________________________.
b. She reads ‘Vogue’. She likes to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
_______________________________.
6. They’re making their costumes. They don’t have to buy them.
_______________________________.
7. Listen carefully. Then you won’t make any mistakes.
_______________________________.
8. We didn’t take the short cut. We wanted to avoid the danger of getting lost.
_______________________________.
EXERCISE 2
Match the following questions with the appropriate answers:
| 1. Why have you put your hands over your ears? | A. So as not to hear all your silly questions! |
| 2. You should eat fruit and vegetables. Why? | B. So as not to get cold. |
| 3. Why have you stopped listening to the radio? | C. To look smart for the interview. |
| 4. Why are you hurrying? | D. To be healthy. |
| 5. You bought a new suit. Why? | E. So as not to be late. |
| 6. Why do you wear a coat in winter? | F. So as to read the newspaper. |
Purpose clauses which begin with in order that or so that usually contain a modal.
E.G. Guide dogs have special training so that they can help blind people.
We’ve closed the kitchen door in order that the puppies won’t escape.
EXERCISE 3
Complete the following sentences with an appropriate purpose clause:
1. They opened the windows so that _________________.
2. I didn’t spend all my money in order that _______________.
3. Listen carefully so that ________________.
4. I’ve bought a car so that _________________.
5. We always plant the seeds early in order that.
6. She got up early so that ________________.
7. Let’s leave early so that _______________.
8. Don’t forget to go to the supermarket so that _______________.