Expressing purpose

A2 Elementary

Expressing purpose explains why someone does an action using 'to' followed by a verb or 'for' followed by a noun.

Overview

In English, we use specific structures to explain the reason or purpose for an action. The most common way is using an infinitive with 'to' or a prepositional phrase with 'for'.

Form

Action + to + verb OR Action + for + noun

Use to + infinitive when the purpose is an action. Use for + noun when the purpose is a thing or an event.

Examples

Common mistakes

I went to the shop for buy bread.
I went to the shop to buy bread.
Use 'to' before a verb to show purpose, not 'for'.
She came here for to see me.
She came here to see me.
Do not use 'for' and 'to' together before a verb.

To vs. For

While both express purpose, the choice depends entirely on whether a verb or a noun follows.

Structure	Used with	Example
to + verb	Actions/Activities	I exercise to stay healthy.
for + noun	Objects/Events	I exercise for my health.

Practice

I am going to the library ___ study.
Show answer
to
Answer:to
Why:We use 'to' because 'study' is a verb expressing the action/purpose.
They went to the restaurant ___ dinner.
Show answer
for
Answer:for
Why:We use 'for' because 'dinner' is a noun representing the event/purpose.
He bought a suit ___ the wedding.
Show answer
for
Answer:for
Why:We use 'for' because 'the wedding' is a noun phrase.