B1

so that + S + can / will + V0 · in order to / so as to + V0

Mệnh đề chỉ mục đích

Explanation

so that đi với cả một mệnh đề có chủ ngữ riêng. in order to và so as to đi với nguyên thể, dùng khi hai vế cùng chủ ngữ. Bẫy thường gặp: so that phải có mệnh đề đủ chủ ngữ và động từ: so that to understand ✗, so that they could understand ✓.

Examples

I left early so that I would not be late.

Tôi đi sớm để khỏi muộn.

She spoke slowly so that everyone could understand.

Cô ấy nói chậm để ai cũng hiểu.

He went out in order to buy bread.

Anh ấy ra ngoài để mua bánh mì.

Practice

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Learn “so that + S + can / will + V0 · in order to / so as to + V0” effectively

The grammar point “so that + S + can / will + V0 · in order to / so as to + V0” (Mệnh đề chỉ mục đích) is one of the key structures at CEFR 3. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.

Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.

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