so as to

The phrase "so as to" is a common English idiom that is used to express purpose or intention. It is a conjunction that is often used to indicate the reason or purpose of an action. This article will delve into the usage, meaning, and examples of the phrase "so as to" in English language and literature.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Understanding the Phrase "So As To"</h2>

The phrase "so as to" is a standard part of English grammar. It is used to express a specific purpose or intention. In other words, it is used to explain why something is done. The structure is usually followed by an infinitive verb (to + verb). For example, "I am saving money so as to buy a new car." Here, the phrase "so as to" is used to express the purpose of saving money, which is to buy a new car.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Correct Usage of "So As To"</h2>

The phrase "so as to" is used in formal and written English. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation or informal English. Instead, phrases like "to", "in order to", or "so that" are used. For example, instead of saying "I am studying hard so as to pass the exam", in informal English, one would say "I am studying hard to pass the exam" or "I am studying hard so that I can pass the exam".

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">Examples of "So As To" in Sentences</h2>

The phrase "so as to" can be used in a variety of contexts and sentences. Here are a few examples:

1. "She woke up early so as to catch the first bus to work."

2. "He is working overtime so as to meet the project deadline."

3. "They are learning Spanish so as to communicate better when they travel to Spain."

4. "I am eating healthy so as to lose weight and stay fit."

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">"So As To" in Literature</h2>

The phrase "so as to" is also used in literature to express purpose or intention. It is used by authors to provide a clear explanation of a character's actions or intentions. For example, in the novel "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen, the phrase is used as follows: "Mr. Darcy had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty; he had looked at her without admiration at the ball; and when they next met, he looked at her only to criticize. But no sooner had he made it clear to himself and his friends that she had hardly a good feature in her face, than he began to find it was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes. To this discovery succeeded some others equally mortifying. Though he had detected with a critical eye more than one failure of perfect symmetry in her form, he was forced to acknowledge her figure to be light and pleasing; and in spite of his asserting that her manners were not those of the fashionable world, he was caught by their easy playfulness. Of this she was perfectly unaware; to her he was only the man who made himself agreeable nowhere, and who had not thought her handsome enough to dance with. He began to wish to know more of her, and as a step towards conversing with her himself, attended to her conversation with others. His doing so drew her attention. He asked her a question; she replied, but scarcely looked at him, her eyes were so busy wandering over the room in quest of some other object. But he did it for a purpose. He wanted to attract her attention so as to engage her in conversation."

In conclusion, the phrase "so as to" is a useful tool in English language and literature. It is used to express purpose or intention, and is commonly used in formal and written English. Understanding its usage and meaning can help improve one's English language skills and comprehension.