French grammar: expression du but

What this grammar point covers

The 'expression du but' in French is how you express the purpose, goal, or intention of an action. It answers the question 'why?' or 'for what purpose?'.

When to use it

Use these forms in French when you want to explain the reason or goal behind an action, such as why you do something or what you hope to achieve.

Key forms

• pour + infinitif (ex: pour apprendre)
• afin de + infinitif (ex: afin de réussir)
• dans le but de + infinitif (ex: dans le but de progresser)
• pour que + subjonctif (ex: pour que tu comprennes)

Examples

Tips

• Use 'pour' or 'afin de' with the infinitive when the subject is the same in both parts of the sentence.
• 'Pour que' is followed by the subjunctive and is used when the subjects are different.
• Don't confuse 'pour' (purpose) with 'par' (cause or means).

Exceptions and edge cases

• 'Pour que' always requires the subjunctive, even if it feels unnatural.
• If the subject does not change, do not use 'pour que'.