para que
Lemma Details
Translation: so that; in order that; so; in order to
Part of Speech: conjunction
Etymology: This conjunction is formed by combining two Spanish prepositions: 'para' (for, in order to) and 'que' (that). 'Para' evolved from Latin 'per ad' (through to), while 'que' comes from Latin 'quid' (what). Together they form a purposive conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause expressing purpose or intention.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Te lo explico para que lo entiendas.
I'm explaining it to you so that you understand it.
Estudia mucho para que apruebes el examen.
Study hard so that you pass the exam.
Te llamé para que vinieras a la fiesta.
I called you so that you would come to the party.
Habla más despacio para que te entiendan.
Speak more slowly so that they understand you.
Mnemonics
- Think 'para' as 'for a' and 'que' as 'quest' - 'for a quest' helps remember it's about purpose.
- Remember that 'para que' always needs the subjunctive mood after it by thinking 'PARA QUE wants SUBjunctive'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This conjunction is essential in Spanish for expressing purpose and is used frequently in both formal and informal contexts. It's one of the key conjunctions that triggers the subjunctive mood in the dependent clause, reflecting the uncertainty or desire inherent in expressing purpose.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Para que' expresses purpose (in order to, so that), while 'porque' expresses cause or reason (because). 'Para que' is followed by the subjunctive mood, whereas 'porque' is typically followed by the indicative mood.
Confused word:
No fui a la fiesta porque estaba enfermo.
I didn't go to the party because I was sick.
Notes: 'Para que' always requires the subjunctive mood in the clause that follows, which reflects the uncertainty or desire inherent in expressing purpose.
Mnemonic: 'Para que' looks forward to a purpose or goal, while 'porque' looks backward to a reason or cause.
Explanation: 'Para que' is a conjunction that introduces a purpose clause and requires the subjunctive, while 'para' is a preposition that can be followed by a noun or infinitive verb.
Confused word:
Este regalo es para ti.
This gift is for you.
Notes: The addition of 'que' allows for a new subject and conjugated verb in the subordinate clause.
Mnemonic: When you need to express purpose with a conjugated verb, use 'para que' + subjunctive. When the purpose involves a noun or infinitive, just 'para' is enough.