grammar · neutral

so that + clause

Band 4-5speakingtask2

A connector used to show purpose or result; followed by a clause (subject + verb), often with a modal.

Examples

“I study late so that I can finish the assignment on time.”

“They lowered the price so that customers would buy more.”

“Turn down the music so that the neighbours won't complain.”

Band 8 sentence

“I limited my social media time so that I could concentrate fully on preparing for the university entrance exams.”

Collocations

  • so that + subject + can / could
  • so that + subject + will / would

Common mistakes

He saved money so he could to pay his tuition.→He saved money so that he could pay his tuition.

I woke up early so to catch the bus.→I woke up early so that I could catch the bus.

She reduced her hours so customers would not arrive late.→She reduced her hours so that customers would not arrive late.

Say it for a higher band

5to→6so→7+so that

Synonyms

in order that

to (infinitive)

Easily confused

in order to

“They saved money in order to buy a small house.”

to

“He woke up early to catch the first train.”

Related words

By the time + clause, clauseWhether + clause (or not)So + adjective + that + clauseEven if + clause, clauseSuch + (a/an) + noun + that + clauseIf + past perfect, would have + past participleOn the one hand + clause; on the other hand + clauseGiven that + clause, + clause

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In Complex sentences

Learn it with its set