Beyond “In Order To”: Expanding Your English Vocabulary

Mastering English involves more than just knowing the basic grammatical structures; it requires understanding the nuances of language and having a versatile vocabulary. One common phrase that English learners often rely on is “in order to,” used to express purpose or intention.

While perfectly correct, overusing it can make your writing and speech sound repetitive and less sophisticated. This article explores a variety of alternative phrases and grammatical structures that convey the same meaning as “in order to,” providing you with the tools to express yourself more eloquently and effectively.

Whether you’re a student aiming for higher grades, a professional seeking to improve your communication skills, or simply an English enthusiast, this guide will help you diversify your language and add depth to your expression.

By exploring synonyms and alternative grammatical structures, you’ll be able to communicate your ideas more precisely and engagingly. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of these alternatives, complete with examples, usage guidelines, and practice exercises.

So, let’s dive in and discover the many ways to say “in order to”!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Definition of “In Order To”
3. Structural Breakdown
4. Alternatives to “In Order To”
   • To + Infinitive
   • So As To + Infinitive
   • So That + Clause
   • In Order That + Clause
   • With the Aim Of + Gerund
   • With the Purpose Of + Gerund
   • For + Noun/Gerund
   • To That End
   • In Hopes Of + Gerund
   • As + Clause
5. Examples
   • To + Infinitive Examples
   • So As To + Infinitive Examples
   • So That + Clause Examples
   • In Order That + Clause Examples
   • With the Aim Of + Gerund Examples
   • With the Purpose Of + Gerund Examples
   • For + Noun/Gerund Examples
   • To That End Examples
   • In Hopes Of + Gerund Examples
   • As + Clause Examples
6. Usage Rules
7. Common Mistakes
8. Practice Exercises
9. Advanced Topics
10. FAQ
11. Conclusion

Definition of “In Order To”

“In order to” is a phrase used to express the purpose or reason for doing something. Grammatically, it is a prepositional phrase that introduces an infinitive verb.

The phrase clarifies the intention behind an action, answering the question “Why?” or “For what purpose?” It’s a formal way to indicate purpose and is often used in both written and spoken English, but it can sometimes sound a bit stiff or repetitive if used too frequently.

The function of “in order to” is to connect an action with its intended outcome. It provides clarity and emphasizes the purpose of the action.

While it is grammatically correct, varying your vocabulary can enhance the sophistication and readability of your writing and speech. The phrase can be used in various contexts, from academic writing to everyday conversations, but it’s important to be aware of its alternatives to avoid sounding monotonous.

Structural Breakdown

The structure of “in order to” is quite straightforward: it consists of the preposition “in,” the noun “order,” the preposition “to,” and is always followed by the base form of a verb (the infinitive). Here’s a breakdown:

• In: A preposition indicating location or state.
• Order: A noun referring to a condition or arrangement.
• To: A preposition indicating direction or purpose.
• Base form of the verb: The infinitive form, without any conjugation (e.g., to run, to eat, to study).

The entire phrase “in order to + verb” functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the main verb in the sentence by explaining the reason or purpose behind it. The phrase typically appears at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence, setting the stage for the action and its intended outcome.

Understanding this basic structure is crucial for recognizing and using alternative phrases that serve the same purpose.

Alternatives to “In Order To”

While “in order to” is a perfectly valid way to express purpose, there are many other options that can make your writing and speech more varied and engaging. Here, we explore several alternatives, each with its own nuances and appropriate contexts.

To + Infinitive

The simplest and often most direct alternative to “in order to” is simply using “to” followed by the infinitive form of the verb. This construction is widely used and generally considered more concise and natural than “in order to.”

So As To + Infinitive

“So as to” is another way to express purpose, similar to “in order to.” It’s slightly more formal than “to” alone, but still less formal than “in order to.” It often emphasizes the intention behind the action.

So That + Clause

Instead of an infinitive, you can use “so that” followed by a clause (a subject and a verb). This construction is used when you want to express the purpose with a greater level of detail, often including a modal verb like “can,” “could,” “will,” or “would.”

In Order That + Clause

“In order that” is similar to “so that” and also requires a clause. However, “in order that” is more formal and less common in everyday speech.

It’s typically used in formal writing and legal documents.

With the Aim Of + Gerund

This phrase is followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb used as a noun). It emphasizes the intention or goal behind an action and is often used in more formal contexts.

With the Purpose Of + Gerund

Similar to “with the aim of,” this phrase also takes a gerund and highlights the intended purpose of the action. It’s a slightly more formal alternative.

For + Noun/Gerund

“For” can be used to express purpose when followed by a noun or a gerund. This construction is often used to indicate the reason or function of something.

To That End

This phrase is used to introduce an action that is intended to achieve a previously stated goal. It’s a concise and formal way to express purpose.

In Hopes Of + Gerund

This phrase expresses the hope or expectation of achieving a certain outcome. It is followed by a gerund and is often used to describe actions taken with a specific desired result in mind.

As + Clause

“As” can sometimes be used to indicate purpose, especially when it introduces a clause that explains the reason for an action. This usage is less common but can add variety to your writing.

Examples

To illustrate the different ways to express purpose, here are examples of each alternative, showcasing their usage in context.

To + Infinitive Examples

The “to + infinitive” structure is a versatile and concise way to express purpose. It’s appropriate for most situations and generally sounds more natural than “in order to.” The following table presents a variety of sentences using this structure.

Sentence	Explanation
I went to the store to buy milk.	The purpose of going to the store was to buy milk.
She studies hard to get good grades.	The reason she studies hard is to achieve good grades.
He exercises regularly to stay healthy.	The intention of exercising is to maintain good health.
They saved money to travel the world.	The goal of saving money is to enable world travel.
We woke up early to catch the sunrise.	The purpose of waking up early was to see the sunrise.
The company invested in new technology to improve efficiency.	The company’s investment aimed to enhance operational efficiency.
The chef added spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.	Spices were added with the intention of making the dish more flavorful.
The athlete trained diligently to win the competition.	The athlete’s training was aimed at securing victory in the competition.
The teacher provided extra help to support struggling students.	Extra help was given with the purpose of assisting students who were struggling.
The government implemented new policies to reduce poverty.	The new policies were intended to alleviate poverty.
She enrolled in a language course to learn Spanish.	Her purpose in enrolling was to acquire Spanish language skills.
He took a detour to avoid traffic.	The detour was taken to bypass traffic congestion.
They moved to the countryside to find peace and quiet.	Their move was motivated by the desire for tranquility.
We organized a fundraiser to support the local charity.	The fundraiser was organized to provide financial assistance to the charity.
The scientist conducted experiments to test the hypothesis.	The experiments were carried out to validate or disprove the hypothesis.
The artist used bright colors to create a vibrant painting.	Bright colors were used to achieve a lively and energetic visual effect.
The author did extensive research to write an accurate historical novel.	Extensive research was conducted to ensure the historical accuracy of the novel.
The engineer designed a new bridge to improve transportation.	The bridge was designed with the intention of enhancing transportation infrastructure.
The doctor prescribed medication to alleviate the patient’s symptoms.	Medication was prescribed to provide relief from the patient’s symptoms.
The gardener planted flowers to beautify the garden.	The flowers were planted to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the garden.
The librarian organized the books to make them easier to find.	The books were organized to improve their accessibility to library users.
The musician practiced daily to perfect their performance.	Daily practice was undertaken to achieve a flawless performance.
The programmer wrote code to automate the task.	The code was written with the purpose of automating a specific task.
The student reviewed their notes to prepare for the exam.	The notes were reviewed to get ready for the upcoming exam.

So As To + Infinitive Examples

“So as to + infinitive” adds a slightly more formal tone while still expressing purpose. Here are some examples demonstrating its usage.

Sentence	Explanation
I arrived early so as to get a good seat.	The purpose of arriving early was to secure a good seat.
She spoke clearly so as to be understood by everyone.	She spoke clearly with the intention of ensuring everyone understood her.
He exercised regularly so as to maintain his fitness.	Regular exercise was undertaken to preserve his level of fitness.
They saved money so as to afford a new house.	The goal of saving money was to make a new house financially accessible.
We left early so as to avoid the traffic.	Leaving early was done to bypass the traffic congestion.
The company invested in training so as to improve employee skills.	The purpose of the investment was to enhance the skills of the employees.
The chef carefully selected ingredients so as to ensure the dish’s quality.	The chef carefully selected ingredients with the goal of guaranteeing high quality.
The athlete followed a strict diet so as to optimize performance.	The athlete adhered to a strict diet to achieve the best possible performance.
The teacher provided feedback so as to help students improve.	Feedback was given to facilitate improvement among the students.
The government implemented regulations so as to protect the environment.	Regulations were put in place to ensure environmental protection.
She took notes in the meeting so as to remember the details later.	She wrote down notes so she would remember all the important details.
He checked the weather forecast so as to prepare for the trip.	He made sure to check what the weather would be like so he would be prepared for his trip.
They locked the doors so as to prevent any intruders.	The doors were locked so that no intruders would be able to get in.
We booked the tickets in advance so as to secure our seats.	We booked our tickets early so we would have good seats.
The scientist conducted multiple experiments so as to validate the results.	The scientist did many experiments so he could be sure of the results.
The artist used a variety of techniques so as to create a unique piece.	The artist used a lot of different techniques so it would be a unique piece.
The author revised the manuscript so as to improve the clarity.	The author revised the manuscript to make it more clear.
The engineer tested the prototype so as to identify any flaws.	The engineer tested the prototype so he could find any problems.
The doctor ordered more tests so as to confirm the diagnosis.	The doctor ordered more tests so he could confirm the diagnosis.
The gardener watered the plants so as to keep them healthy.	The gardener watered the plants so they would stay healthy.
The librarian cataloged the new books so as to make them accessible to readers.	The librarian cataloged the new books so readers would be able to find them.
The musician practiced scales so as to improve their technique.	The musician practiced scales so their technique would get better.
The programmer debugged the code so as to eliminate errors.	The programmer debugged the code so there would be no more errors.
The student reviewed the material so as to reinforce learning.	The student reviewed the material so they could learn it better.

So That + Clause Examples

“So that + clause” is used to express purpose with a more detailed explanation of the intended outcome. It often includes a modal verb.

Sentence	Explanation
I saved money so that I could buy a car.	The purpose of saving money was to enable the purchase of a car.
She studied hard so that she would pass the exam.	She studied hard with the hope of passing the exam.
He exercised regularly so that he could stay in shape.	Regular exercise was done to maintain his physical condition.
They whispered so that no one would hear them.	They whispered to avoid being overheard.
We left early so that we wouldn’t miss the train.	Leaving early was done to ensure we caught the train.
The company invested in research so that they could develop new products.	The company invested in research with the aim of developing new products.
The chef used fresh ingredients so that the dish would taste better.	The chef used fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish.
The athlete trained intensely so that they could compete at the highest level.	The athlete trained intensely to be able to compete at the highest level.
The teacher provided extra resources so that students could succeed.	The teacher provided extra resources to help students achieve success.
The government implemented policies so that the economy would improve.	The government implemented policies with the goal of improving the economy.
She wrote down the address so that she wouldn’t forget it.	She wrote down the address so she would remember it later.
He set an alarm so that he wouldn’t oversleep.	He set an alarm to make sure he didn’t sleep in.
They installed security cameras so that they could monitor the property.	They put up security cameras so they could keep an eye on the property.
We booked a hotel room so that we would have a place to stay.	We booked a hotel room so we would have somewhere to sleep.
The scientist ran the experiment again so that the results could be verified.	The scientist ran the experiment again so the results could be double checked.
The artist used different brushes so that they could create different textures.	The artist used different brushes so they could make different textures.
The author did more research so that the story would be more accurate.	The author did more research so the story would be more accurate.
The engineer redesigned the part so that it would be stronger.	The engineer redesigned the part so it would be stronger.
The doctor prescribed the medicine so that the patient would feel better.	The doctor prescribed the medicine so the patient would feel better.
The gardener watered the plants so that they would grow.	The gardener watered the plants so they would grow.
The librarian organized the shelves so that the books would be easier to find.	The librarian organized the shelves so the books would be easier to find.
The musician practiced their scales so that their fingers would be more agile.	The musician practiced their scales so their fingers would be more agile.
The programmer commented the code so that others could understand it.	The programmer commented the code so others would be able to understand it.
The student reviewed the notes so that they would remember the information.	The student went over the notes so they would remember the information.

In Order That + Clause Examples

“In order that + clause” is a more formal version of “so that,” typically used in formal writing.

Sentence	Explanation
He studied diligently in order that he might succeed in his exams.	He studied hard so that he would succeed in his exams.
She saved money in order that she could travel the world.	She saved money so that she would be able to travel the world.
The laws were enacted in order that justice might be served.	The laws were enacted so that justice would be served.
The information was kept confidential in order that the project would not be compromised.	The information was kept confidential so that the project would not be compromised.
The measures were taken in order that the situation could be controlled.	The measures were taken so that the situation would be controlled.
The company implemented new policies in order that the workplace would be safer.	The company put in place new policies so the workplace would be safer.
The chef carefully prepared the ingredients in order that the dish might be perfect.	The chef carefully prepared the ingredients to make sure the dish was perfect.
The athlete followed the training regime in order that they could reach peak performance.	The athlete followed the training regime so they could do their best.
The teacher provided extra tutoring in order that the students could improve their grades.	The teacher gave extra tutoring so the students could improve their grades.
The government allocated funds in order that the infrastructure might be improved.	The government allocated funds so the infrastructure could be improved.
She wrote a detailed report in order that her colleagues would understand the issue.	She wrote a detailed report so her colleagues would understand the issue.
He set up a backup system in order that he wouldn’t lose his data.	He set up a backup system so he wouldn’t lose his data.
They installed a new security system in order that they could protect their home.	They installed a new security system so they could protect their home.
We reserved the venue early in order that we would secure our preferred date.	We reserved the venue early so we would secure our preferred date.
The scientist conducted further experiments in order that the findings could be confirmed.	The scientist did further experiments so the findings could be confirmed.
The artist used specific techniques in order that the painting would convey a certain emotion.	The artist used specific techniques so the painting would convey a certain emotion.
The author revised the manuscript extensively in order that the narrative would be engaging.	The author revised the manuscript extensively so the narrative would be engaging.
The engineer tested the design thoroughly in order that any potential weaknesses would be identified.	The engineer tested the design thoroughly so any potential weaknesses would be identified.
The doctor prescribed the treatment regimen in order that the patient’s health might improve.	The doctor prescribed the treatment regimen so the patient’s health might improve.
The gardener fertilized the soil in order that the plants would thrive.	The gardener fertilized the soil so the plants would thrive.
The librarian cataloged the books meticulously in order that users could easily find them.	The librarian cataloged the books meticulously so users could easily find them.
The musician practiced the piece repeatedly in order that they might perform it flawlessly.	The musician practiced the piece repeatedly so they might perform it flawlessly.
The programmer documented the code carefully in order that other developers could understand it.	The programmer documented the code carefully so other developers could understand it.
The student reviewed the lecture notes in order that they would retain the information.	The student reviewed the lecture notes so they would retain the information.

With the Aim Of + Gerund Examples

“With the aim of + gerund” is a more formal way to express purpose, focusing on the intention behind the action.

Sentence	Explanation
He worked hard with the aim of getting a promotion.	His hard work was intended to lead to a promotion.
She volunteered with the aim of helping the community.	Her volunteering was intended to benefit the community.
They invested in the project with the aim of increasing profits.	Their investment was intended to generate higher profits.
We organized the event with the aim of raising awareness.	The event was organized to increase public awareness.
The company launched the campaign with the aim of improving its image.	The campaign was launched to enhance the company’s public image.
The scientist conducted the study with the aim of finding a cure.	The study was done with the goal of finding a cure.
The artist created the artwork with the aim of provoking thought.	The artwork was created to make people think.
The author wrote the book with the aim of inspiring others.	The book was written to inspire other people.
The engineer designed the system with the aim of enhancing efficiency.	The system was designed to make things more efficient.
The doctor prescribed the treatment with the aim of relieving pain.	The treatment was prescribed to relieve pain.
She enrolled in the course with the aim of learning new skills.	She enrolled in the course because she wanted to learn new skills.
He joined the club with the aim of making new friends.	He joined the club because he wanted to make new friends.
They renovated the building with the aim of attracting more tenants.	They renovated the building so they could attract more tenants.
We organized the conference with the aim of fostering collaboration.	We organized the conference so we could foster collaboration.
The scientist developed the technology with the aim of solving the problem.	The scientist developed the technology so he could solve the problem.
The artist painted the mural with the aim of beautifying the neighborhood.	The artist painted the mural so he could beautify the neighborhood.
The author wrote the article with the aim of informing the public.	The author wrote the article so he could inform the public.
The engineer improved the design with the aim of reducing costs.	The engineer improved the design so he could reduce costs.
The doctor recommended the exercise with the aim of improving health.	The doctor recommended the exercise so he could improve health.
The gardener pruned the trees with the aim of promoting growth.	The gardener pruned the trees so he could promote growth.
The librarian organized the collection with the aim of facilitating research.	The librarian organized the collection so research would be easier.
The musician practiced the piece with the aim of perfecting their technique.	The musician practiced the piece so their technique would be better.
The programmer debugged the software with the aim of ensuring stability.	The programmer debugged the software so he could make sure it was stable.
The student reviewed the material with the aim of consolidating knowledge.	The student reviewed the material so he could consolidate his knowledge.

With the Purpose Of + Gerund Examples

“With the purpose of + gerund” is very similar to “with the aim of,” emphasizing the intended purpose.

Sentence	Explanation
He saved money with the purpose of buying a house.	His savings were intended for the purchase of a house.
She studied hard with the purpose of getting good grades.	Her studies were focused on achieving good grades.
They trained rigorously with the purpose of winning the championship.	Their training was done with the intention of winning the championship.
We organized the event with the purpose of raising funds for charity.	We organized the event so we could raise money for charity.
The company launched the initiative with the purpose of improving employee morale.	The company launched the initiative so employee morale would improve.
The scientist conducted the experiment with the purpose of discovering new information.	The scientist conducted the experiment to find out new information.
The artist created the sculpture with the purpose of expressing their emotions.	The artist created the sculpture to express their emotions.
The author wrote the novel with the purpose of entertaining readers.	The author wrote the novel to entertain the readers.
The engineer designed the machine with the purpose of automating the process.	The engineer designed the machine so it would automate the process.
The doctor prescribed the medication with the purpose of treating the illness.	The doctor prescribed the medication so it would treat the illness.
She attended the workshop with the purpose of developing her skills.	She attended the workshop so she could develop her skills.
He joined the organization with the purpose of making a difference.	He joined the organization because he wanted to make a difference.
They renovated the house with the purpose of increasing its value.	They renovated the house so it would be worth more.
We planned the trip with the purpose of exploring new cultures.	We planned the trip because we wanted to explore new cultures.
The scientist conducted the research with the purpose of advancing knowledge.	The scientist conducted the research so he could advance knowledge.
The artist painted the portrait with the purpose of capturing the essence of the subject.	The artist painted the portrait so he could capture the essence of the subject.
The author wrote the poem with the purpose of conveying a message.	The author wrote the poem so it would convey a message.
The engineer designed the bridge with the purpose of improving transportation.	The engineer designed the bridge so it would improve transportation.
The doctor recommended the therapy with the purpose of helping the patient recover.	The doctor recommended the therapy so it would help the patient recover.
The gardener planted the flowers with the purpose of adding beauty to the garden.	The gardener planted the flowers so they would add beauty to the garden.
The librarian organized the books with the purpose of facilitating access to information.	The librarian organized the books so it would be easier to access information.
The musician practiced the piece with the purpose of perfecting their performance.	The musician practiced the piece so they could perfect their performance.
The programmer wrote the code with the purpose of automating the task.	The programmer wrote the code so it would automate the task.
The student reviewed the notes with the purpose of preparing for the exam.	The student reviewed the notes so they would be prepared for the exam.

For + Noun/Gerund Examples

“For + noun/gerund” is a concise way to express purpose, often indicating the reason or function of something.

Sentence	Explanation
This tool is for cutting wood.	The tool’s purpose is to cut wood.
She went to the library for studying.	The reason she went to the library was to study.
He uses the app for tracking his expenses.	The app is used to track his expenses.
They saved money for their retirement.	The money was saved to provide for their retirement.
We bought this house for living in.	The purpose of buying the house was to live in it.
The company created the software for managing data.	The software was created to handle all of the data.
The chef prepared the dish for a special occasion.	The dish was prepared for a special occasion.
The athlete trained hard for the upcoming competition.	The athlete trained hard to prepare for the competition.
The teacher provided resources for student learning.	The resources were provided to help the students learn.
The government implemented policies for economic growth.	The policies were put in place to help the economy grow.
She uses the calendar for scheduling appointments.	She uses the calendar to keep track of appointments.
He wears glasses for seeing better.	He wears glasses so he can see better.
They use the internet for researching information.	They use the internet to find information.
We save energy for protecting the environment.	We save energy so we can protect the environment.
The scientist uses the microscope for observing cells.	The scientist uses the microscope to observe cells.
The artist uses the brush for painting details.	The artist uses the brush to paint the details.
The author wrote the book for inspiring readers.	The author wrote the book to inspire readers.
The engineer designed the device for improving efficiency.	The engineer designed the device to improve efficiency.
The doctor prescribed the medicine for treating the illness.	The doctor prescribed the medicine to treat the illness.
The gardener uses the tools for maintaining the garden.	The gardener uses the tools to maintain the garden.
The librarian uses the system for organizing books.	The librarian uses the system to organize the books.
The musician practices for perfecting their skills.	The musician practices to perfect their skills.
The programmer debugs the code for eliminating errors.	The programmer debugs the code to eliminate errors.
The student studies for understanding the material.	The student studies to understand the material.

To That End Examples

“To that end” is a formal phrase used to introduce an action that is intended to achieve a previously stated goal.

Sentence	Explanation
The company wants to increase sales; to that end, they launched a new marketing campaign.	The marketing campaign was launched to achieve the goal of increased sales.
She aims to improve her fitness; to that end, she exercises daily.	Daily exercise is done to achieve the goal of improved fitness.
They plan to expand their business; to that end, they are seeking investors.	Seeking investors is done to achieve the goal of business expansion.
We want to reduce our carbon footprint; to that end, we are using renewable energy sources.	Using renewable energy sources is intended to achieve the goal of reducing our carbon footprint.
The organization aims to support local communities; to that end, they provide resources and training.	Providing resources and training is intended to achieve the goal of supporting local communities.
The scientist wants to find a cure for the disease; to that end, they are conducting extensive research.	The scientist is conducting research to find a cure for the disease.
The artist wants to create a meaningful piece of art; to that end, they are experimenting with new techniques.	The artist is experimenting with new techniques to create meaningful art.
The author wants to write a compelling novel; to that end, they are developing complex characters and storylines.	The author is developing complex characters and storylines to write a compelling novel.
The engineer wants to design a more efficient system; to that end, they are using advanced technologies.	The engineer is using advanced technologies to design a more efficient system.
The doctor wants to improve patient outcomes; to that end, they are implementing new treatment protocols.	The doctor is implementing new treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes.
She wants to learn a new language; to that end, she is taking online classes.	She is taking online classes to learn a new language.
He wants to save more money; to that end, he is cutting down on expenses.	He is cutting down on expenses to save more money.
They want to improve their home; to that end, they are renovating the kitchen.	They are renovating the kitchen to improve their home.
We want to reduce waste; to that end, we are recycling more.	We are recycling more to reduce waste.
The scientist wants to prove the theory; to that end, they are gathering more data.	The scientist is gathering more data to prove the theory.
The artist wants to evoke emotion; to that end, they are using vibrant colors.	The artist is using vibrant colors to evoke emotion.
The author wants to engage the reader; to that end, they are creating suspenseful plots.	The author is creating suspenseful plots to engage the reader.
The engineer wants to make the product safer; to that end, they are conducting rigorous testing.	The engineer is conducting rigorous testing to make the product safer.
The doctor wants to help patients recover; to that end, they are providing personalized care.	The doctor is providing personalized care to help patients recover.
The gardener wants to grow healthy plants; to that end, they are using organic fertilizers.	The gardener is using organic fertilizers to grow healthy plants.
The librarian wants to improve access to information; to that end, they are digitizing the collection.	The librarian is digitizing the collection to improve access to information.
The musician wants to perfect their performance; to that end, they are practicing daily.	The musician is practicing daily to perfect their performance.
The programmer wants to ensure the software is reliable; to that end, they are writing automated tests.	The programmer is writing automated tests to ensure the software is reliable.
The student wants to master the subject; to that end, they are attending all the lectures.	The student is attending all the lectures to master the subject.

In Hopes Of + Gerund Examples

“In hopes of + gerund” expresses the hope or expectation of achieving a certain outcome.

Sentence	Explanation
He applied for the job in hopes of getting an interview.	He hoped that applying for the job would lead to an interview.
She studied hard in hopes of passing the exam.	She hoped that studying hard would result in passing the exam.
They invested in the company in hopes of making a profit.	They hoped that their investment would generate a profit.
We arrived early in hopes of getting good seats.	We hoped that arriving early would allow us to get good seats.
The team practiced diligently in hopes of winning the championship.	The team hoped that practicing diligently would lead to winning the championship.
The company launched a new product in hopes of increasing market share.	The company launched a new product to increase market share.
The chef experimented with new recipes in hopes of creating a signature dish.	The chef experimented with new recipes to create a signature dish.
The athlete followed a strict diet in hopes of improving performance.	The athlete followed a strict diet to improve performance.
The teacher provided extra help in hopes of supporting struggling students.	The teacher provided extra help to support struggling students.
The government implemented new policies in hopes of stimulating economic growth.	The government implemented new policies to stimulate economic growth.
She started networking in hopes of finding new opportunities.	She started networking because she hoped to find new opportunities.
He started volunteering in hopes of gaining experience.	He started volunteering because he hoped to gain experience.
They started advertising in hopes of attracting more customers.	They started advertising because they hoped to attract more customers.
We started saving in hopes of buying a new car.	We started saving because we hoped to buy a new car.
The scientist collected data in hopes of proving the hypothesis.	The scientist collected data because he hoped to prove the hypothesis.
The artist used new techniques in hopes of creating unique art.	The artist used new techniques because he hoped to create unique art.
The author revised the manuscript in hopes of improving the story.	The author revised the manuscript because he hoped to improve the story.
The engineer tested the prototype in hopes of finding flaws.	The engineer tested the prototype because he hoped to find flaws.
The doctor ordered tests in hopes of diagnosing the illness.	The doctor ordered tests because he hoped to diagnose the illness.
The gardener watered the plants in hopes of helping them grow.	The gardener watered the plants because he hoped to help them grow.
The librarian organized the books in hopes of making them easier to find.	The librarian organized the books because he hoped to make them easier to find.
The musician practiced the piece in hopes of perfecting their performance.	The musician practiced the piece because he hoped to perfect their performance.
The programmer debugged the code in hopes of eliminating errors.	The programmer debugged the code because he hoped to eliminate errors.
The student reviewed the notes in hopes of remembering the information.	The student reviewed the notes because he hoped to remember the information.

As + Clause Examples

“As + clause” can sometimes be used to indicate purpose, especially when it introduces a clause that explains the reason for an action. This usage is less common, but can add variety to your writing.

Sentence	Explanation
As he wanted to improve his skills, he took a course.	He took a course because he wanted to improve his skills.
As she needed to earn money, she started freelancing.	She started freelancing because she needed to earn money.
As they aimed to expand their business, they sought investors.	They sought investors because they aimed to expand their business.
As we wanted to reduce waste, we started recycling.	We started recycling because we wanted to reduce waste.
As the company aimed to increase sales, it launched a new campaign.	The company launched a new campaign because it wanted to increase sales.
As the scientist wanted to discover new information, they conducted an experiment.	The scientist conducted an experiment because they wanted to discover new information.
As the artist wanted to express their feelings, they created a sculpture.	The artist created a sculpture because they wanted to express their feelings.
As the author wanted to entertain readers, they wrote a novel.	The author wrote a novel because they wanted to entertain readers.
As the engineer wanted to automate the process, they designed a machine.	The engineer designed a machine because they wanted to automate the process.
As the doctor wanted to treat the illness, they prescribed medication.	The doctor prescribed medication because they wanted to treat the illness.
As she wanted to learn new skills, she attended the workshop.	She attended the workshop because she wanted to learn new skills.
As he wanted to make a difference, he joined the organization.	He joined the organization because he wanted to make a difference.
As they wanted to increase its value, they renovated the house.	They renovated the house because they wanted to increase its value.
As we wanted to explore new cultures, we planned the trip.	We planned the trip because we wanted to explore new cultures.
As the scientist wanted to advance knowledge, they conducted the research.	The scientist conducted the research because they wanted to advance knowledge.
As the artist wanted to capture the essence of the subject, they painted the portrait.	The artist painted the portrait because they wanted to capture the essence of the subject.
As the author wanted to convey a message, they wrote the poem.	The author wrote the poem because they wanted to convey a message.
As the engineer wanted to improve transportation, they designed the bridge.	The engineer designed the bridge because they wanted to improve transportation.
As the doctor wanted to help the patient recover, they recommended the therapy.	The doctor recommended the therapy because they wanted to help the patient recover.
As the gardener wanted to add beauty to the garden, they planted the flowers.	The gardener planted the flowers because they wanted to add beauty to the garden.
As the librarian wanted to facilitate access to information, they organized the books.	The librarian organized the books because they wanted to facilitate access to information.
As the musician wanted to perfect their performance, they practiced the piece.	The musician practiced the piece because they wanted to perfect their performance.
As the programmer wanted to automate the task, they wrote the code.	The programmer wrote the code because they wanted to automate the task.
As the student wanted to prepare for the exam, they reviewed the notes.	The student reviewed the notes because they wanted to prepare for the exam.

Usage Rules

Understanding the nuances of each alternative is crucial for using them correctly. Here are some general guidelines:

• Formality: “To + infinitive” is generally neutral and suitable for most contexts. “So as to,” “with the aim of,” and “with the purpose of” are more formal. “In order that” is the most formal and least common in everyday speech.
• Clarity: Use “so that” or “in order that” when you need to provide a more detailed explanation of the purpose. These constructions allow you to include a subject and a verb, making the intention clearer.
• Conciseness: “To + infinitive” and “for + noun/gerund” are the most concise options and are suitable when the purpose is straightforward and doesn’t require a detailed explanation.
• Emphasis: “With the aim of” and “with the purpose of” emphasize the intention or goal behind the action. Use these when you want to highlight the deliberate nature of the action.
• Context: Consider the audience and the context in which you are writing or speaking. Formal situations may call for more formal alternatives, while informal settings may be better suited to simpler constructions.

Common Mistakes

Even with a good understanding of the alternatives, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

• Incorrect verb form: Using the wrong verb form after “to,” “so as to,” “with the aim of,” or “with the purpose of.” Remember to use the base form of the verb after “to” and “so as to,” and the gerund (-ing form) after “with the aim of” and “with the purpose of.”
  • Incorrect: I went to the store in order to buying milk.
  • Correct: I went to the store in order to buy milk.
  • Incorrect: She studied hard with the aim of to get good grades.
  • Correct: She studied hard with the aim of getting good grades.
• Misusing “so that” and “in order that”: Forgetting to include a modal verb (can, could, will, would) in the clause following “so that” or “in order that.”
  • Incorrect: He saved money so that he buy a car.
  • Correct: He saved money so that he could buy a car.
• Overusing formal alternatives: Using formal alternatives like “in order that” or “with the purpose of” in informal situations, making your language sound unnatural.
  • Unnatural: I went to the party with the purpose of having fun.
  • Better: I went to the party to have fun.
• Incorrect word order: Ensure that the phrase expressing purpose is placed logically within the sentence so that it is clear which action it modifies.
  • Incorrect: To improve my health, I eat vegetables.
  • Correct: I eat vegetables to improve my health.

Practice Exercises

Now it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Rewrite the following sentences using the alternative phrases discussed in this article.

Advanced Topics

For those looking to further refine their understanding, here are some advanced topics to consider:

• Subtleties of formality: Explore the subtle differences in formality between phrases like “so as to,” “with the aim of,” and “with the purpose of.” Consider how these nuances can affect the tone of your writing.
• Combining alternatives: Experiment with combining different alternatives to create more complex and nuanced sentences. For example, you could use “so that” to introduce a clause that explains the purpose in more detail, followed by “to + infinitive” to express a secondary purpose.
• Cultural variations: Be aware that the preferred alternatives may vary depending on the region or culture. For example, some phrases may be more common in British English than in American English, and vice versa.

FAQ

Conclusion

By mastering these alternatives to “in order to,” you can significantly enhance your English vocabulary and communication skills. Each phrase offers a unique nuance, allowing you to express purpose with greater precision and sophistication.

Remember to consider the context, audience, and desired tone when choosing the most appropriate alternative. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to diversify your language and communicate your ideas more effectively.