"So that" is a conjunction used to express purpose or result. It can be used in a few different ways, and understanding these nuances is key to using it correctly.
1. Expressing Purpose (Reason): This is the most common use. It explains why someone is doing something. "So that" introduces a subordinate clause that states the intended outcome or goal.
- Structure: Main Clause + so that + Subordinate Clause (Purpose)
- Examples:
- "I study hard so that I can get good grades." (The purpose of studying hard is to get good grades.)
- "She saved money so that she could buy a new car." (The purpose of saving money was to buy a car.)
- "He spoke slowly and clearly so that everyone could understand him." (The purpose of speaking slowly and clearly was for everyone to understand.)
2. Expressing Result (Less Common): While less frequent, "so that" can sometimes indicate a result, similar to "therefore" or "consequently." However, this usage is often considered less formal and can sometimes be ambiguous. It's generally better to use "so" or "therefore" for expressing results.
- Structure: Main Clause + so that + Subordinate Clause (Result)
- Example (Less Preferred): "He was very tired, so that he fell asleep immediately." (This could also be interpreted as purpose, though less likely. "So" or "therefore" would be clearer here.)
- Better Alternatives: "He was very tired, so he fell asleep immediately." Or, "He was very tired; therefore, he fell asleep immediately."
Key Points to Remember:
- "So that" usually introduces a clause explaining the purpose of the action in the main clause.
- The subordinate clause following "so that" typically uses a modal verb (can, could, will, would, may, might, should) or a verb expressing a potential outcome.
- While "so that" can sometimes express a result, it's generally clearer and more formal to use "so" or "therefore" for this purpose.
- Avoid using "so as to" when "so that" is more appropriate. "So as to" is generally used with infinitives (e.g., "He exercised so as to improve his health").
In summary, "so that" is primarily used to show the purpose or reason behind an action. Understanding this core function will help you use it correctly in your writing and speaking.
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