"in order" vs "so that"

Question

"in order" vs "so that"

Both "so that" and "in order" are correct and commonly used in English to express purpose or intention. They can be used interchangeably in most cases, but "so that" is more informal and commonly used in spoken English, while "in order" is slightly more formal and often used in written English.

Last Updated: April 02, 2024

It is used to indicate the purpose or intention behind an action. It is slightly more formal and often used in written English.

Examples:

She arrived early in order to secure a good seat.
He worked hard in order to achieve his goals.
They saved money in order to buy a new car.

Alternatives:

so that
to
for the purpose of
with the aim of
with the intention of

It is used to show the reason or purpose behind an action. It is more informal and commonly used in spoken English.

Examples:

I turned off the lights so that we could save energy.
She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.
He left early so that he wouldn't miss the bus.

Alternatives:

in order to
to
for the purpose of
with the aim of
with the intention of

Answer 1

in order

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express purpose or intention.

Answer 2

so that

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to express purpose or intention.