…，以 + 动词
so as to; in order to (written)
Structure
行为 ， 以 目的
What it means
A written 'so as to': the second clause states the purpose of the first. 以 links an action to the aim it serves.
How it is built
Action，以 + verb phrase of purpose: 公司增加了培训，以提高员工的能力 (The company added training to raise staff ability). The verb after 以 is usually two syllables: 表示, 提高, 满足.
When to use it
Formal writing: reports, rules, speeches. In speech put 为了 at the front instead. Cousins: 以便 (so that it is easy to), 以免 (so as not to). Separate pattern: 以 A 代 B, use A in place of B.
Watch out
以 opens the second clause; it cannot start the sentence the way 为了 does: ✗ 以提高能力，公司增加了培训 ✓ 为了提高能力，公司增加了培训.
Examples
碰杯时杯口要低一些，以表示尊重。
When clinking, hold your rim a little lower to show respect.
公司增加了培训，以提高员工的能力。
The company added training to raise staff ability.
Learn this in Lesson 31 · HSK 5–6: 饭局的规矩 (The rules of the dinner table)
A dialogue, a reading, word cards with audio and a drill that uses it, in Learn Chinese with Bao. The first lessons of every level are free.
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