Purpose adverbials

Definition

Purpose adverbials are phrases or clauses that explain the reason or intent behind an action in a sentence. They often answer the question 'why?' and are typically introduced by subordinating conjunctions like 'to,' 'so that,' or 'in order to.' Understanding purpose adverbials helps clarify the motives of subjects in sentences and enhances comprehension of their overall meaning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Purpose adverbials can be found at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, allowing flexibility in sentence structure.
2. They often clarify not just what is happening, but why it is important or necessary, adding depth to the narrative.
3. Common subordinating conjunctions used to introduce purpose adverbials include 'to,' 'so that,' and 'in order to.'
4. Purpose adverbials can be combined with other types of adverbials (such as manner or time) to create more complex sentences.
5. These adverbials can also help in understanding complex texts by pinpointing the intent behind various actions within the text.

Review Questions

• How do purpose adverbials function within a sentence to enhance meaning?
  • Purpose adverbials function by explaining the intent behind an action, answering the question 'why?' This additional information not only clarifies the motives of the subject but also enriches the overall context of the sentence. By including purpose adverbials, writers can communicate reasons for actions clearly, which helps readers understand the significance of those actions.
• Compare and contrast purpose adverbials with other types of adverbials in terms of their roles in sentences.
  • Purpose adverbials specifically address the reason behind an action, whereas other types of adverbials, such as time or manner adverbials, provide context related to when or how an action occurs. For example, while a time adverbial might tell us when something happens ('Yesterday'), a purpose adverbial would explain why it happens ('to improve skills'). This distinction highlights how different adverbials contribute various layers of meaning to sentences.
• Evaluate how the use of purpose adverbials can affect clarity and engagement in writing.
  • The use of purpose adverbials can greatly enhance clarity by making the intentions behind actions explicit. This added clarity keeps readers engaged as they are better able to follow the narrative's flow and understand character motivations. When writers skillfully incorporate purpose adverbials into their work, they create a more coherent narrative that resonates with readers, allowing them to connect more deeply with the text and its underlying messages.

Related terms

Adverbial clause: A dependent clause that functions as an adverb, providing additional information about how, when, where, why, or to what extent something happens.

Infinitive phrase: A phrase that begins with an infinitive verb form (to + verb) and functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence.

Subordinating conjunction: A word or phrase that introduces a subordinate clause and connects it to a main clause, indicating the relationship between the two clauses.