Intermediate 📐 Grammar · #141 of 305

Purpose Clauses: So That, In Order To

Explain reasons for actions.

Examples

  • I left early so that I wouldn't be late.

Key rules

  • To/in order to/so as to + base verb: same subject
  • So that + clause: often with can, could, will, would
  • Negative: in order not to, so as not to
  • Do not use for + verb for purpose

Common mistakes

  • I came for to see you → I came to see you
  • He ran so that catch the bus → He ran so that he could catch the bus
💡 Tip: Use so that when the subject changes.
Practise this topic in the appPractise Intermediate quiz
← Concession: Although, Even Though, DespiteResult Clauses: So... That, Such... That →

Related Intermediate topics

See all Intermediate grammar lessons →

Present Perfect Continuous

have been + -ing stresses duration up to now.

Past Perfect

had + past participle for an earlier past action.

Past Perfect Continuous

had been + -ing for duration before a past moment.

Future Continuous

will be + -ing for actions in progress at a future time.

Future Perfect

will have + past participle for completion before a future time.

Future Perfect Continuous

will have been + -ing for duration up to a future point.