00 / Non-finite Verbs
Expressing purpose
Expressing purpose explains why someone does an action using 'to' followed by a verb or 'for' followed by a noun.
A2Elementary
01 / 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'.
02 / 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.
03 / Examples
04 / 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.
05 / 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. |
06 / Practice
I am going to the library ___ study.
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Answer: to
Why: We use 'to' because 'study' is a verb expressing the action/purpose.
They went to the restaurant ___ dinner.
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Answer: for
Why: We use 'for' because 'dinner' is a noun representing the event/purpose.
He bought a suit ___ the wedding.
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Answer: for
Why: We use 'for' because 'the wedding' is a noun phrase.