English sentences have diverse structures and usages. Among them, adverbial clauses are important elements that expand the meaning of a sentence and express it more clearly. In particular, adverbial clauses indicating purpose or result are very useful when we use English. In this article, we will explore in depth the definition and forms of adverbial clauses, as well as how to use adverbial clauses that indicate purpose and result.
1. Concept of Adverbial Clauses
An adverbial clause serves to modify the main clause and supplements the meaning of verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It primarily provides answers to the questions of ‘how’, ‘why’, ‘when’, and ‘where’ regarding an action or state, allowing for the addition of more information within a single sentence. An adverbial clause includes a subject and a verb and usually begins with a conjunction.
1.1 Types of Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses can be divided into several types based on their functions. Typical examples include adverbial clauses of time, reason, condition, and concession.
- Adverbial Clauses of Time: Conjunctions like ‘when,’ ‘before,’ ‘after,’ and ‘while’ are used.
- Adverbial Clauses of Reason: Conjunctions like ‘because,’ ‘since,’ and ‘as’ are used to explain reasons.
- Adverbial Clauses of Condition: Conjunctions like ‘if’ and ‘unless’ are used to present conditions.
- Adverbial Clauses of Concession: Conjunctions like ‘although,’ ‘even though,’ and ‘though’ are utilized.
2. Adverbial Clauses Indicating Purpose and Result
Purpose-indicating adverbial clauses commonly use expressions like ‘so that’ and ‘in order that’ to explain the purpose of an action. Result-indicating adverbial clauses utilize structures like ‘so…that’ and ‘such…that’ to explain the relationship between cause and result. These clauses have an important function of expanding the meaning of sentences.
2.1 Purpose-Indicating Adverbial Clauses
Purpose refers to the reason or intention behind an action or event. In English, purpose-indicating adverbial clauses are commonly formed using ‘so that’ or ‘in order that.’ These clauses supplement the verb of the main clause and clarify the purpose of the action.
Examples:
- She studies hard so that she can pass the exam.
- He is saving money in order that he can buy a car.
2.2 Result-Indicating Adverbial Clauses
Result adverbial clauses explain the results of the events or actions mentioned in the main clause. In this case, ‘so…that’ or ‘such…that’ is used to emphasize the meaning of the clauses. This structure helps to explicitly connect the relationship between cause and result for interpretation.
Examples:
- It was so hot that we had to stay indoors.
- She was such a talented singer that everyone was amazed.
3. Grammatical Structure of Purpose and Result Adverbial Clauses
It is important to understand simple grammatical principles when using purpose and result adverbial clauses. The relationship between the main clause and the adverbial clause should be clear, and appropriate conjunctions should be chosen for the role of the adverbial clause.
3.1 Structure of Purpose Adverbial Clauses
The structure of purpose adverbial clauses using ‘so that’ and ‘in order that’ is as follows.
- Main Clause + so that/in order that + Subject + Verb
Examples:
- We will leave early so that we can avoid traffic.
- He studies English in order that he can travel abroad.
3.2 Structure of Result Adverbial Clauses
For result adverbial clauses, the structure of ‘so…that’ or ‘such…that’ is as follows.
- Subject + Verb + so + Adjective + that + Subject + Verb
- Subject + Verb + such + (a/an) + Noun + that + Subject + Verb
Examples:
- The movie was so interesting that I watched it twice.
- He had such a good time that he didn’t want to leave.
4. Practical Exercises Using Adverbial Clauses
Now let’s practice using adverbial clauses indicating purpose and result. When writing English sentences, take the opportunity to include adverbial clauses for richer expression. For example, expand the sentences below by adding adverbial clauses.
- She exercises daily.
- He was late.
By transforming these sentences by adding purpose or result adverbial clauses, you can understand how the sentences can be expressed differently.
4.1 Example Transformations
- She exercises daily so that she can stay healthy.
- He was late because he missed the bus.
5. Conclusion
Adverbial clauses are very important elements in constructing English sentences. In particular, purpose and result indicative adverbial clauses are very useful when we express language or intent. Based on the content explored in this article, I hope you will use adverbial clauses in various situations. English learners should repeatedly practice these structures to naturally develop the ability to create adverbial clauses.
Adverbial clauses are not just elements that embellish sentences; they play an essential role in enriching the meaning of sentences and facilitating communication. Therefore, if you fully understand and utilize these adverbial clauses, it will significantly help improve your English skills.