Understanding the Differences Between ‘So That’ and ‘In Order to’ in French and English
When learning a language, understanding the nuances between commonly used phrases can greatly enhance your fluency. In French and English, the phrases ‘so that’ and ‘in order to’ are often used to express purpose or intention. While they are quite similar and can be used interchangeably without changing the overall meaning, there are subtle differences in their connotations and usages that are important to comprehend.
The Usage and Formality of ‘So’ in French
Usage: The French phrase ‘avec’ is more common in everyday language. It is used in informal contexts and can convey a sense of casual conversation. Examples include:
Je travaille dur pour que je puisse réussir. I work hard so that I can succeed.Formality: The usage of ‘avec’ in formal contexts is less common. It tends to be more informal, and while it can be used in written French or in formal speech, it is not the most preferred form.
Example: Nous avons adopté des mesures afin que la situation s’améliore. We have taken measures so that the situation improves.
Formality: The phrase ‘afin que’ conveys a sense of purpose with a more refined tone. It is more formal and is preferred in formal speech and writing.
The Differences in Usage Between ‘So That’ and ‘In Order to’ in English
In English, the phrases ‘so that’ and ‘in order to’ are both used to express purpose, but there can be a subtle difference in connotation.
Weight and Explanatory Value: ‘In order to’ tends to carry more weight and explanation. It emphasizes that a certain action is necessary to achieve a specific outcome. For example:
You can't do it before you have finished the project.Here, ‘in order to’ emphasizes that completion of the project is a necessary prerequisite.
Outcome and Certainty: ‘So that’ is often used when the outcome or the intention is not as certain. It implies a higher degree of possibility rather than necessity. For example:
I will repeat so that everything is clear.Here, the speaker is confident that repeating will achieve clarity, but there is a higher degree of uncertainty.
Subordinating Conjunctions in French and English
Both ‘afin que’ and ‘in order to’ are subordinating conjunctions indicating purpose.
Subordinating Conjunctions are used to introduce a dependent clause that explains or describes the main clause. They are equivalent to ‘so that’ and ‘in order that’ in English and are followed by the subjunctive mood in French:
Je vais répéter afin que tout soit clair.I will repeat so that everything is clear. Je devrai rester sérieuse pour que tu ne ris pas de moi.
I will need to stay serious so that you do not laugh at me.
Conclusion
While ‘so that’ and ‘in order to’ can often be used interchangeably, understanding the subtle differences in their usage and formality can help you convey your intended message more accurately. Whether you are writing in French or English, being aware of these nuances will help you communicate more effectively.
Keywords
so that, in order to, French, English