"in order to" and "with a view to"

[cjhcolin]

what's the difference of the meaning between these two phrases?

After looking up the dictionary , I still can't understand.

Anyway , I would very appreciate it if somebody can explain it to me!

[Josef]

It's true these two are quite similar, but they are not the same!

in order to: as a means to

He hid in a doorway in order to avoid the police.
You must turn the ignition key in order to start the car.
In order to make an omelette you'll have to buy some eggs.

Note that in all the above sentences "in order to" can be replaced simply by "to" (He hid in a doorway to avoid the police). Also, the verb after "in order to" is in infinitive form.

with a view to: with the intention of, with the aim of, with the hope of

He is studying law with a view to becoming a lawyer.
They are both saving money with a view to getting married.
He bought some land with a view to building a house.

"With a view to" is less definite. There is a hope or intention, but we don't really know whether it was (or will be) realized. Note that any verb after "with a view to" is in -ing form.

[cjhcolin]

Thank you,Josef!Your explanation is so helpful.
Although they are similar,there's some differences between them.
One is the meaning,and the other is grammatical rule.
Am I right?
Ithink I'll spend much time asking questions here from now on!
Thanks a lot!

[Josef]

You're right. And you're welcome.