ENGLISH
REFERENCE

so as to do sth

fixed phr..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

fixed phr.. you use this to explain the reason or purpose for an action.

fixed phr.. a complex subordinator used to introduce a clause of purpose; it is more formal than 'to' or 'in order to'.


SIMPLE

He left early so as to avoid the traffic.

CONTEXTUAL

The company updated its privacy policy so as to comply with the new government regulations.

COMPLEX

The diplomat carefully phrased his response so as to maintain neutrality without alienating his domestic supporters.

Usage

always followed by the base form of a verb; the negative form is 'so as not to'.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'so that' which requires a subject and a modal verb; 'so as to' is a more sophisticated way for students to express purpose in formal writing.

Pitfall

He studied hard so as to he could pass.He studied hard so as to pass.this phrase must be followed by an infinitive verb, not a full clause with a subject.

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