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Nsfs2 Posted 12 years ago
Grammar

Using 'will' in purpose clauses

Hi,

I have to questions.
First, is using 'will' and 'would' correct in the following purpose clauses?
1. I go to the post office so that I will buy stamps.
2. I went to the post office so that I would buy stamps.

Second, can the following clause after 'so (that)' be understood as both a result and purpose clause?
3. I shut the windows so (that) the neighbors couldn't hear us.

Thanks.
  

Top answer

1. incorrect; "I go (habit) to the PO (to buy/so that I can buy) stamps" or "I am going (now) to the PO (to/so that I can) buy stamps" 2. Went...

— Anonymous

  • 1.
  • incorrect; "I go (habit) to the PO (to buy/so that I can buy) stamps" or "I am going (now) to the PO (to/so that I can) buy stamps" 2.
  • Went...
  • so that I could...
  • d
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7 Answers
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1. incorrect; "I go (habit) to the PO (to buy/so that I can buy) stamps" or "I am going (now) to the PO (to/so that I can) buy stamps"
2. Went... so that I could...
d
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nsfs2First, is using 'will' and 'would' correct in the following purpose clauses?
No. These sentences are most unnatural. The most natural way of stating purpose is:

I go/went to the post office (in order) to buy stamps.

If you want to use a modal, can and could are possible:

I go to the post office so that I
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What about my second question?
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nsfs2What about my second question?
It will remain unanswered by me if that's your only reaction to two responses you received to your first question.
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Please forgive me and forgive my ignorance.Thanks.
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With full respect asking, what kind of "reaction" does a teacher here (or you specifically, Mr fivejedjon) like to have in order to keep his givings on?
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nsfs21. I go to the post office so that I will buy stamps.
No. Say: I go to the post office to buy stamps.
nsfs23. I shut the windows so (that) the neighbors couldn't hear us.
OK. The shutting of the windows is the result. The desire to secure your privacy is the reason or purpose.
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