Infinitive of Purpose – English Grammar

To + infinitive is very often used in English to express intentions:

I have come here to help you.

In order and so as can be used for the same purpose before to:

I have come here in order to help you.

I have come here so as to help you.

If the subject expressed by the infinitive does not refer to the main verb in the sentence, we can use the following structure:

I have come here in order for you to see my new hairstyle.

To avoid the infinitive when expressing intention, we can use the structure in order that + clause and so that + simple sentence (clause). In a simple sentence (clause), modal auxiliary verbs are often used:

I have come here in order that you can see my new hairstyle.

I left the door open so that she could come in.

I'm taking this book with me, so that I'll have something to read on the train.

Sample exercise on the topic from the Kabinata system:

With the verbs go and come, the infinitive of purpose can be used in any present or past tense in English, or gerund (coming, going):

I'm just coming to help you.

I went there to see the demonstration.

His coming to help was indeed a neighbourly gesture.

In other cases, however, we can use and:

I must go and check the heater.

He will come and dance with you.

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