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5.3: Connectors of Contrast, Condition Reason and Result

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    Connectors of purpose: in order to; to; so that

    Connectors of purpose are connectors which are used when one action (or clause) results in, explains, or provides an intention for another clause (usually the one with the main verb) within a sentence.

    Group 1-The Infinitive of Purpose and "In order to"

    Amil took out his pen in order to write a letter.

    Jonas picked up his fork to eat his dinner.

    Note that the clause of purpose results in one clause (Amil took out his pen) explaining the subsequent clause (to write a letter). The purpose of Amil taking out his pen was to write.

    Group 2: Subordinator

    Kelvin turned on the light so (that) he could see the room.

    When "so that" signifies a purpose, it is possible to omit the pronoun "that".  In this case, there is not comma because "so that" or "so" are part of a dependent clause. Compare with the use of "so," when it means "for this reason" (FANBOYS)

    Connectors of reason: as/since; because; because of; due to

    A clause of reason is usually used to describe why something happened due to the action described by the main clause.

    Group 1: Coordinator

    I needed to pick up my daughter, so I left work early today.

    Group 2: Subordinators

    As it was dark, we used a flashlight.

    This could also be written: Since it was dark, we used a flashlight.

    Again, it can be helpful in using connectors of reason correctly if you look for the reason in the sentence that explains the main clause. In this case, the reason we used a flashlight was because of (or due to) the dark.

    Group 3: Phrases: Due to/Because of/Owing to/ On account of

    Due to unforeseen circumstances, the party was canceled.

    Because of the rain, we stayed indoors.

    Note that the reason we stayed indoors was because of the rain.


    Connectors of result: so; for this reason; as a result; as a consequence; therefore

    Connectors of result are used when one clause comes about as a consequence, or direct result, of the main clause. When x occurs, y will happen. Connectors of result are normally used when there is no doubt regarding the outcome of the action described in the main clause.

    Group 1: Phrases Expressing Effects

    George's book was wet as a result of being dropped in a puddle.

    Note that the outcome is beyond doubt: it is inevitable that the result of a book being dropped in a puddle is that it is going to be wet.

    Group 2: Phrases Expressing Causes

    As a consequence of the delayed train, the guests were late for the wedding.

    Again, note that the guests' lateness is a direct result of the activity described in the main clause.

    Group 3: Transitions

    It was cold. Therefore, we lit a fire.

    Exercise 12:

    Choose the correct option to complete the following sentences of purpose, reason and result:

    1. ______________ the day was warm, he shivered.

    2. ______________ he was far from his friends and family, Jules felt lonely.

    3. Mark did not attend class ______________ his illness.

    4. ______________ it was sunny, we went for a walk by the sea.

    5. Jane bought ingredients ______________ she wanted to make a cake.

    6. They moved forward ______________ they could board the train.

    7. The tree was cut down ______________ it was stopping the light from reaching the window.

    8. ______________ the high cost of chocolate, Marie could only afford one bar.

    9. ______________ the boys' bad behavior, they weren't allowed out to play.

    10. Stacy's hair was wet _________________ _____ her walk in the rain.

    Page adapted from We Love Teaching English is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution - Non-Commercial - No-Derivatives 4.0 International License.


    5.3: Connectors of Contrast, Condition Reason and Result is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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