Purpose clauses – GCSE Classical Greek OCR Revision

Purpose clauses in Greek are subordinate clauses that express the aim or intention of an action.
These clauses usually follow main clauses and answer the question ‘why?’.
They are typically introduced by the subordinating conjunction ‘ἵνα’ or ‘ὅπως’ meaning ‘in order that,’ ‘so that,’ or ‘to’.
Greek also uses a negative purpose clause introduced by ‘μή’ or ‘ὅπως μή’, meaning ‘in order that not’ or ‘lest’.

A purpose clause begins with a conjunction, followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood.
For example, ‘ἔρχομαι ὅπως δείξω’ translates as ‘I come in order that I might show,’ showing a purpose to the coming.
Sometimes a purpose clause uses a future indicative verb instead of a subjunctive, especially when the verb already has a future sense.
The conjunction ‘ὅπως’ is more commonly used with a future indicative than ‘ἵνα.’

A sequence of tense is observed in purpose clauses; if the main clause is in a present or future tense, a present subjunctive verb is used in the purpose clause, while a past tense in the main clause calls for an aorist subjunctive.
However, sometimes, Classical Greek writers do not strictly adhere to this sequence and may use aorist subjunctive following a present or future main clause.
An aorist indicative can also be employed instead of subjunctive to express purpose in certain negative phrases.
Purpose can also be expressed using other structures, such as infinitives.

Purpose clauses help clarify the motivation or intent behind actions, making them essential in conveying precise meanings.
Understanding purpose clauses enhances your ability to make accurate translations.

Purpose clauses offer a clear look into the intentions behind actions. Understanding their structure and use will significantly enhance your understanding of Classical Greek sentence structure.
Remember to follow the sequence of tenses when forming purpose clauses, though be prepared for exceptions in classical texts.