In English we use several different words and structures to express purpose. For can be used to talk about somebody’s purpose in doing something. Note that for is followed by a noun in this structure.
So and so that can be used before a clause to express purpose.
To express a person’s purpose, we often use to-infinitive.
Complete the following sentences using an appropriate word or phrase.
1. I talked to the shy girl ............................ she wouldn't feel left out.
We use 'so' to indicate the result or effect.
2. We stopped at the pub .............................. a drink.
Only the infinitive can be used to express a person's purpose.
3. We stopped at the pub ........................ a drink.
'For' can indicate purpose when it is followed by a noun. It cannot be used before a verb to express purpose.
4. I went to Canada ............................ my brother.
Only the infinitive can be used to express a person's purpose. 'For' can indicate it only when it is followed by a noun.
5. What do I need to get ............................... dinner?
6. Sort your rubbish .............................. recycling.
7. I took the phone back to the store ....................... a replacement.
Only the infinitive can be used to express a person's purpose. 'For' can indicate it only when it is followed by a noun.
8. We started early ........................... we wouldn't be late.
In an informal style that can be dropped after so.
9. You need to be over 18 ......................... that film.
Only the infinitive can be used to express a person's purpose. 'For' can indicate it only when it is followed by a noun.
10. I am leaving early today ........................... the rush hour traffic.
Only the infinitive can be used to express a person's purpose. 'For' can indicate it only when it is followed by a noun.
11. I am putting the meat in the oven now, .......................... it will be ready by eight o'clock.
We use 'so that' before a clause to indicate purpose.
12. I am angry with you ........................... me up.
For can be followed by an ing form after a description of a reaction to explain the behavior that caused it.
Answers
1. I talked to the shy girl so she wouldn’t feel left out.
2. We stopped at the pub to have a drink.
3. We stopped at the pub for a drink.
4. I went to Canada to see my brother.
5. What do I need to get for dinner?
6. Sort your rubbish for recycling.
7. I took the phone back to the store to get a replacement.
8. We started early so that we wouldn’t be late.
9. You need to be over 18 to watch that film.
10. I am leaving early today to avoid the rush hour traffic.
11. I am putting the meat in the oven now, so that it will be ready by eight o’clock.
12. I am angry with you for waking me up.
