Grammar Search With Gail Becker

Grammar Search With Gail Becker

Beyond ‘In Order To’: Expanding Your Expressive Toolkit

Posted on By Gail Becker

The phrase “in order to” is a common and perfectly acceptable way to express purpose in English. However, relying on it exclusively can make your writing and speech sound repetitive and lack nuance.

Mastering alternative expressions not only enhances your communication but also demonstrates a greater command of the English language. This article explores a variety of ways to convey purpose, offering detailed explanations, examples, and practice exercises to help you diversify your linguistic toolkit.

This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from intermediate students looking to refine their grammar to advanced speakers aiming for stylistic sophistication. By understanding and practicing the alternatives presented here, you’ll be able to express your intentions with greater clarity, precision, and elegance.

Table of Contents

Definition: Expressing Purpose

Expressing purpose in English involves indicating the reason or aim behind an action. Purpose clauses and phrases explain why something is done. These grammatical structures are essential for conveying intentions, goals, and desired outcomes in a clear and concise manner. The phrase “in order to” serves this function, but English offers a rich variety of alternatives that can add depth and sophistication to your writing and speech.

Purpose can be expressed through various grammatical forms, including infinitive phrases, subordinate clauses, and prepositional phrases. Each form has its own nuances and stylistic implications, making it important to understand their individual characteristics and appropriate contexts for use.

Understanding the subtle differences between these options allows for more precise and effective communication.

For example, using “to + infinitive” often implies a more direct and immediate purpose, while “so that” introduces a subordinate clause that provides a more detailed explanation of the intended outcome. Choosing the right structure depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis.

Structural Breakdown of Purpose Clauses

Understanding the structure of purpose clauses is crucial for using them correctly and effectively. These clauses typically consist of a main clause and a subordinate clause or phrase that expresses the purpose.

The subordinate clause is often introduced by a conjunction or preposition that signals the purpose relationship.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical structures:

  • Main Clause + to + Infinitive: This is the simplest structure, where the infinitive phrase directly follows the main clause. Example: She went to the library to study.
  • Main Clause + so as to + Infinitive: Similar to “to + infinitive,” but often used in more formal contexts. Example: He exercised regularly so as to improve his health.
  • Main Clause + so that + Clause: This structure introduces a subordinate clause with its own subject and verb. A modal verb (e.g., can, could, will, would, may, might) is often used in the subordinate clause. Example: They saved money so that they could buy a house.
  • Main Clause + in order that + Clause: Similar to “so that,” but more formal. Example: The instructions were clear in order that everyone might understand them.
  • Main Clause + for + Noun/Gerund: This structure uses the preposition “for” followed by a noun or gerund. Example: This tool is for cutting wood.
  • Main Clause + with a view to + Gerund: This phrase is followed by a gerund and indicates a long-term goal. Example: He invested in the stock market with a view to retiring early.
  • Main Clause + with the intention of + Gerund: Similar to “with a view to,” but emphasizes the intention behind the action. Example: She enrolled in the course with the intention of improving her job prospects.
  • Main Clause + purpose of + Noun/Gerund: This phrase is followed by a noun or gerund and specifies the intended use or aim. Example: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget.
  • Main Clause + to that end: This phrase means “in order to achieve that goal.” It typically follows a statement of the goal. Example: We need to reduce our carbon footprint. To that end, we are implementing new energy-saving measures.

Types of Alternatives to “In Order To”

Here’s a detailed look at different ways to express purpose, each with its own specific structure and usage:

To + Infinitive

Using “to + infinitive” is one of the most common and versatile ways to express purpose. It’s suitable for a wide range of contexts and generally implies a direct and immediate purpose.

Structure: Main Clause + to + Infinitive

Example: She went to the store to buy milk.

So As To + Infinitive

“So as to + infinitive” is a more formal alternative to “to + infinitive.” It often implies a deliberate or conscious effort to achieve a specific outcome.

Structure: Main Clause + so as to + Infinitive

Example: He studied hard so as to pass the exam.

So That + Clause

Using “so that + clause” introduces a subordinate clause that explains the purpose in more detail. This structure often includes a modal verb (can, could, will, would, may, might) to express possibility or intention.

Structure: Main Clause + so that + Subject + Modal Verb + Verb

Example: They left early so that they could avoid the traffic.

In Order That + Clause

“In order that + clause” is similar to “so that + clause” but is generally considered more formal. It also includes a subordinate clause with a subject and verb, often with a modal verb.

Structure: Main Clause + in order that + Subject + Modal Verb + Verb

Example: The instructions were clear in order that everyone might understand them.

For + Noun/Gerund

The preposition “for” can be used to express purpose when followed by a noun or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb used as a noun). This structure is often used to describe the intended use or function of something.

Structure: Main Clause + for + Noun/Gerund

Example: This knife is for cutting vegetables.

With a View To + Gerund

“With a view to + gerund” is a more formal expression that indicates a long-term goal or intention. It’s often used in business or academic contexts.

Structure: Main Clause + with a view to + Gerund

Example: He invested in the company with a view to becoming a partner.

With the Intention Of + Gerund

“With the intention of + gerund” is similar to “with a view to + gerund” but emphasizes the deliberate intention behind the action. It suggests a conscious decision to achieve a specific outcome.

Structure: Main Clause + with the intention of + Gerund

Example: She enrolled in the course with the intention of improving her skills.

Purpose Of + Noun/Gerund

“Purpose of + Noun/Gerund” is used to explicitly state the reason or aim behind something. It’s often used in formal writing or when providing explanations.

Structure: Main Clause + purpose of + Noun/Gerund

Example: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the project timeline.

To That End

“To that end” is an idiomatic phrase that means “in order to achieve that goal.” It’s used to introduce an action or strategy that is intended to help achieve a previously stated objective.

Structure: Main Clause (stating the goal). To that end, + Main Clause (action to achieve the goal).

Example: The company aims to reduce its carbon footprint. To that end, it is investing in renewable energy sources.

Examples

This section provides extensive examples of each alternative to “in order to,” illustrating their usage in different contexts.

To + Infinitive Examples

The following table provides examples of using “to + infinitive” to express purpose. Notice how this structure directly links the action in the main clause to its intended outcome.

Sentence
She went to the gym to exercise.
He saved money to buy a new car.
They studied hard to pass the exam.
I woke up early to catch the train.
We traveled to Italy to see the Colosseum.
The doctor prescribed medicine to relieve the pain.
The teacher gave homework to reinforce the lesson.
The chef used fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal.
The artist painted a picture to express her emotions.
The musician wrote a song to share his feelings.
The politician gave a speech to gain support.
The lawyer presented evidence to prove his client’s innocence.
The scientist conducted research to discover new knowledge.
The engineer designed a bridge to connect the two cities.
The architect drew plans to build a house.
The writer wrote a book to entertain readers.
The dancer practiced every day to perfect her technique.
The athlete trained hard to win the competition.
The student asked questions to understand the material.
The employee worked overtime to meet the deadline.
He called her to apologize for his mistake.
She wrote a letter to thank him for his help.
They organized a fundraiser to raise money for charity.

So As To + Infinitive Examples

The following table showcases the use of “so as to + infinitive,” a more formal way to express purpose, often indicating a conscious effort.

Sentence
He exercised regularly so as to improve his health.
She saved carefully so as to buy a house.
They studied diligently so as to pass the exam.
I arrived early so as to secure a good seat.
We spoke quietly so as not to disturb the others.
The company invested in training so as to enhance employee skills.
The government implemented new policies so as to reduce pollution.
The organization launched a campaign so as to raise awareness.
The school provided extra support so as to help struggling students.
The library acquired new books so as to expand its collection.
The museum offered guided tours so as to educate visitors.
The hospital implemented new procedures so as to improve patient care.
The restaurant hired more staff so as to provide better service.
The airline upgraded its fleet so as to offer more comfortable flights.
The hotel renovated its rooms so as to attract more guests.
The store offered discounts so as to increase sales.
The factory installed new equipment so as to improve efficiency.
The farm adopted new techniques so as to increase crop yields.
The bakery used high-quality ingredients so as to produce delicious pastries.
The brewery implemented strict quality control so as to ensure consistent taste.
The software company released updates so as to fix bugs.
The construction company used durable materials so as to build a strong foundation.
The research team conducted thorough experiments so as to validate their findings.

So That + Clause Examples

The table below provides examples of using “so that + clause” to express purpose. Note the inclusion of a modal verb in the subordinate clause, indicating possibility or intention.

Sentence
They left early so that they could avoid the traffic.
She saved money so that she could buy a house.
He studied hard so that he would pass the exam.
We booked the tickets in advance so that we could get good seats.
The company invested in training so that its employees could improve their skills.
The government implemented new policies so that the environment would be protected.
The teacher gave clear instructions so that the students could understand the task.
The doctor prescribed medicine so that the patient would feel better.
The parents set rules so that their children would learn responsibility.
The coach provided encouragement so that the team would play their best.
The scientist conducted experiments so that he could test his hypothesis.
The artist used vibrant colors so that her painting would attract attention.
The musician practiced diligently so that he could perform flawlessly.
The writer crafted a compelling narrative so that readers would be captivated.
The architect designed a sustainable building so that it would minimize environmental impact.
The engineer built a strong bridge so that it would withstand heavy loads.
The chef created a delicious menu so that customers would enjoy their dining experience.
The gardener planted flowers so that the garden would be beautiful.
The librarian organized the books so that patrons could easily find what they needed.
The programmer wrote clean code so that the software would run efficiently.
The manager delegated tasks so that the team could meet the deadline.
The salesperson built rapport with the client so that they would close the deal.
The negotiator remained calm so that they could reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

In Order That + Clause Examples

This table provides examples of “in order that + clause,” a more formal alternative to “so that,” also requiring a modal verb in the subordinate clause.

Sentence
The instructions were clear in order that everyone might understand them.
The laws were enacted in order that justice could be served.
The security measures were implemented in order that the building would be safe.
The procedures were standardized in order that the process might be more efficient.
The guidelines were established in order that the project could be completed successfully.
The resources were allocated efficiently in order that the goals would be achieved.
The communication was transparent in order that trust might be built.
The training was comprehensive in order that employees could perform their duties effectively.
The support system was robust in order that students might succeed.
The infrastructure was improved in order that the economy could grow.
The regulations were enforced strictly in order that the safety standards would be maintained.
The systems were monitored constantly in order that any issues might be detected early.
The feedback was constructive in order that individuals could improve their performance.
The policies were reviewed regularly in order that they would remain relevant and effective.
The partnerships were fostered strategically in order that the organization could expand its reach.
The investments were made wisely in order that the returns would be maximized.
The innovations were encouraged actively in order that the company could stay competitive.
The collaborations were promoted globally in order that knowledge could be shared widely.
The standards were set high in order that excellence might be achieved.
The evaluations were conducted fairly in order that the results would be accurate and reliable.

For + Noun/Gerund Examples

This table showcases the use of “for + noun/gerund” to express the purpose or function of something.

Sentence
This knife is for cutting vegetables.
This room is for storage.
This medicine is for relieving pain.
This tool is for digging holes.
This machine is for washing clothes.
This app is for learning languages.
This website is for providing information.
This course is for improving skills.
This program is for helping people.
This organization is for promoting peace.
This fund is for supporting education.
This campaign is for raising awareness.
This event is for celebrating success.
This award is for recognizing achievement.
This research is for understanding the universe.
This technology is for solving problems.
This policy is for protecting the environment.
This strategy is for achieving goals.
This system is for managing resources.
This process is for ensuring quality.
This manual is for providing instructions.
This guide is for helping travelers.
This map is for navigating the city.

With a View To + Gerund Examples

The following table presents examples of using “with a view to + gerund,” indicating a long-term goal or intention.

Sentence
He invested in the company with a view to becoming a partner.
She enrolled in the university with a view to earning a degree.
They saved money with a view to buying a house.
I started exercising with a view to improving my health.
We are expanding our business with a view to increasing our profits.
The government is implementing new policies with a view to reducing unemployment.
The organization is launching a campaign with a view to raising awareness about climate change.
The school is providing extra support with a view to helping struggling students succeed.
The library is acquiring new books with a view to expanding its collection.
The museum is offering guided tours with a view to educating visitors about history.
The hospital is implementing new procedures with a view to improving patient care.
The restaurant is hiring more staff with a view to providing better service to its customers.
The airline is upgrading its fleet with a view to offering more comfortable flights to its passengers.
The hotel is renovating its rooms with a view to attracting more guests and enhancing their experience.
The store is offering discounts with a view to increasing sales and attracting new customers.
The factory is installing new equipment with a view to improving efficiency and reducing production costs.
The farm is adopting new techniques with a view to increasing crop yields and ensuring food security.
The bakery is using high-quality ingredients with a view to producing delicious pastries that customers will love.
The brewery is implementing strict quality control measures with a view to ensuring that its beer is consistently delicious.
The software company is releasing updates with a view to fixing bugs and improving the user experience.

With the Intention Of + Gerund Examples

This table presents examples of using “with the intention of + gerund,” emphasizing the deliberate intention behind an action.

Sentence
She enrolled in the course with the intention of improving her skills.
He started saving money with the intention of buying a house.
They began exercising with the intention of getting in shape.
I joined the club with the intention of meeting new people.
We volunteered at the shelter with the intention of helping animals.
The company launched a new product with the intention of expanding its market share.
The government implemented new policies with the intention of stimulating the economy.
The school provided extra tutoring with the intention of supporting struggling students.
The library organized workshops with the intention of promoting literacy in the community.
The museum created interactive exhibits with the intention of engaging visitors of all ages.
The hospital invested in new technology with the intention of improving patient outcomes.
The restaurant revamped its menu with the intention of attracting a wider range of customers.
The airline introduced new routes with the intention of connecting more cities and countries.
The hotel offered special packages with the intention of boosting tourism in the region.
The store launched a loyalty program with the intention of rewarding its regular customers.
The factory adopted sustainable practices with the intention of reducing its environmental impact.
The farm implemented innovative farming techniques with the intention of increasing crop yields.
The bakery created new recipes with the intention of delighting its customers with unique flavors.
The brewery experimented with different ingredients with the intention of crafting distinctive and flavorful beers.
The software company developed a user-friendly interface with the intention of making its software accessible to everyone.

Purpose Of + Noun/Gerund Examples

This table provides examples of “purpose of + Noun/Gerund” to explicitly state the reason or aim behind something.

Sentence
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the project timeline.
The purpose of this exercise is to improve your grammar skills.
The purpose of this research is to find a cure for the disease.
The purpose of this law is to protect the environment.
The purpose of this organization is to help the needy.
The purpose of this training program is to enhance employee skills.
The purpose of this workshop is to provide practical knowledge.
The purpose of this event is to raise money for charity.
The purpose of this campaign is to raise awareness about the issue.
The purpose of this policy is to promote equality.
The purpose of this strategy is to achieve the company’s goals.
The purpose of this system is to manage resources efficiently.
The purpose of this process is to ensure quality control.
The purpose of this evaluation is to assess performance.
The purpose of this review is to identify areas for improvement.
The purpose of this innovation is to solve a problem.
The purpose of this technology is to improve efficiency.
The purpose of this design is to create a user-friendly interface.
The purpose of this experiment is to test a hypothesis.
The purpose of this study is to gather data.

To That End Examples

This table provides examples of “to that end”, used to introduce an action intended to achieve a previously stated goal.

Sentence
We need to reduce our carbon footprint. To that end, we are implementing new energy-saving measures.
The company aims to increase its market share. To that end, it is launching a new marketing campaign.
The government wants to improve education standards. To that end, it is investing in teacher training programs.
The organization is committed to fighting poverty. To that end, it is providing food and shelter to the homeless.
The school seeks to promote a culture of inclusivity. To that end, it is organizing diversity workshops for students and staff.
The hospital strives to provide the best possible patient care. To that end, it is investing in new medical equipment and technologies.
The restaurant aims to offer customers a unique dining experience. To that end, it is creating innovative dishes and providing impeccable service.
The airline is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its passengers. To that end, it is implementing rigorous safety protocols and training its staff.
The hotel seeks to provide guests with a comfortable and memorable stay. To that end, it is offering luxurious amenities and personalized service.
The store is committed to providing customers with high-quality products. To that end, it is sourcing its merchandise from reputable suppliers.
The factory aims to minimize its environmental impact. To that end, it is adopting sustainable manufacturing practices and reducing its waste.
The farm seeks to produce healthy and nutritious food. To that end, it is using organic farming methods and avoiding harmful pesticides.
The bakery strives to create delicious and wholesome baked goods. To that end, it is using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
The brewery aims to craft unique and flavorful beers. To that end, it is experimenting with different ingredients and brewing techniques.
The software company is committed to developing user-friendly and innovative software. To that end, it is investing in research and development and listening to customer feedback.

Usage Rules

While these alternatives offer flexibility, it’s important to use them correctly. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Formality: “So as to” and “in order that” are generally more formal than “to.” Consider your audience and the context when choosing an option.
  • Clarity: Ensure that your choice clearly conveys the intended purpose. Avoid ambiguity by using the structure that best fits the meaning you want to express.
  • Subject Consistency: When using “to + infinitive” or “so as to + infinitive,” the subject of the infinitive is usually the same as the subject of the main clause. If the subjects are different, use “so that” or “in order that.”
  • Modal Verbs: “So that” and “in order that” clauses often include modal verbs (can, could, will, would, may, might) to express possibility or intention.
  • Gerunds vs. Infinitives: “With a view to” and “with the intention of” are followed by gerunds (-ing forms), while “to” and “so as to” are followed by infinitives (base form of the verb).
  • “For” Usage: When using “for,” make sure it’s followed by a noun or gerund that clearly indicates the purpose.
  • “To That End”: Use “to that end” after clearly stating a goal or objective. It should introduce the action or strategy taken to achieve that goal.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “in order to”:

  • Incorrect Use of Gerunds and Infinitives: Mixing up gerunds and infinitives after certain phrases (e.g., using “to improving” instead of “to improve”).
  • Subject-Verb Disagreement in “So That” and “In Order That” Clauses: Ensure the verb in the subordinate clause agrees with its subject.
  • Omission of Modal Verbs: Forgetting to include a modal verb in “so that” and “in order that” clauses when necessary.
  • Awkward Phrasing: Using overly formal language in informal contexts, or vice versa.
  • Ambiguity: Failing to clearly link the purpose to the action, leading to confusion.
  • Misusing “For”: Using “for” with a verb instead of a gerund (e.g., “This is for learn” instead of “This is for learning”).
  • Incorrect placement of “To That End”: Using “to that end” without a clearly stated goal preceding it.

Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:

  • Incorrect: He studied hard for to pass the exam. Correct: He studied hard to pass the exam.
  • Incorrect: They saved money so that they buy a house. Correct: They saved money so that they could buy a house.
  • Incorrect: She went to the library with a view to study. Correct: She went to the library with a view to studying.
  • Incorrect: The purpose of this meeting is discuss the budget. Correct: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget.
  • Incorrect: We are investing in new technology. We want improved efficiency. To that end. Correct: We are investing in new technology to improve efficiency. To that end, we are…

Practice Exercises

These exercises will help you practice using the different alternatives to “in order to” effectively.

Exercise 1: Rewriting Sentences

Rewrite the following sentences using the alternative expressions provided in parentheses. Make any necessary changes to ensure grammatical correctness.

  1. She went to the store in order to buy some milk. (to + infinitive)
  2. He studied hard in order that he would pass the exam. (so that + clause)
  3. They saved money in order to buy a house. (with a view to + gerund)
  4. The purpose of this meeting is in order to discuss the budget. (purpose of + noun)
  5. We are implementing new strategies in order to improve efficiency. (to that end)

Answers:

  1. She went to the store to buy some milk.
  2. He studied hard so that he would pass the exam.
  3. They saved money with a view to buying a house.
  4. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget.
  5. We aim to improve efficiency. To that end, we are implementing new strategies.

Exercise 2: Gap-Fill Exercise

Fill in the gaps in the following sentences with the most appropriate alternative to “in order to” from the list below. Use each option only once.

Options: (so as to, for, with the intention of, in order that, to)

  1. He exercised regularly __________ improve his health.
  2. She saved money __________ buy a new car.
  3. They provided clear instructions __________ everyone could understand the task.
  4. This tool is __________ cutting wood.
  5. He enrolled in the course __________ improving his job prospects.

Answers:

  1. He exercised regularly so as to improve his health.
  2. She saved money to buy a new car.
  3. They provided clear instructions in order that everyone could understand the task.
  4. This tool is for cutting wood.
  5. He enrolled in the course with the intention of improving his job prospects.

Exercise 3: Sentence Combining

Combine the following pairs of sentences into one sentence using an appropriate alternative to “in order to.”

  1. She went to the library. She wanted to study.
  2. He worked hard. He wanted to earn a promotion.
  3. The company invested in training. They wanted to enhance employee skills.

Answers:

  1. She went to the library to study.
  2. He worked hard so as to earn a promotion.
  3. The company invested in training so that they could enhance employee skills.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider exploring these more nuanced aspects of expressing purpose:

  • Subjunctive Mood: In very formal contexts, the subjunctive mood can be used in “in order that” clauses to express a strong desire or requirement (e.g., “The rules were established in order that all students be treated equally.”).
  • Ellipsis: In certain situations, parts of the purpose clause can be omitted for brevity (e.g., “He went to the store, intending to buy milk” instead of “He went to the store with the intention of buying milk.”).
  • Rhetorical Effect: Consider how different choices can emphasize different aspects of the purpose. For example, “with the intention of” highlights the deliberateness of the action.

FAQ

Is “in order to” always replaceable?

While “in order to” can often be replaced with a more concise alternative, there are situations where it provides clarity or emphasis that other options might not. The key is to choose the phrasing that best suits the context and your intended meaning.

When is it best to use “so as to” instead of “to”?

“So as to” is generally more formal and emphasizes a deliberate effort. Use it when you want to highlight the conscious intention behind an action, particularly in formal writing or speech.

Can I use “so that” and “in order that” interchangeably?

Yes, “so that” and “in order that” are largely interchangeable, but “in order that” is considered more formal. Choose the option that best fits the tone of your writing or speech.

Is it incorrect to use “for” with an infinitive?

Yes, “for” should be followed by a noun or a gerund, not an infinitive. The correct structure is “for + noun/gerund” (e.g., “This is for learning,” not “This is for learn”).

How can I improve my ability to choose the best alternative?

Practice is key! Read widely, pay attention to how different authors express purpose, and experiment with using the alternatives in your own writing and speech.

Ask for feedback from native English speakers to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

By mastering these alternatives to “in order to,” you can significantly enhance the clarity, sophistication, and variety of your English. Understanding the nuances of each expression and practicing their use will empower you to communicate your intentions more effectively and confidently in any context.

Remember to consider the level of formality, the desired emphasis, and the grammatical correctness when choosing the best way to express purpose. With consistent practice, you’ll be well-equipped to move beyond “in order to” and unlock a richer, more expressive range of possibilities in your communication.

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