only to/just to

[Vladv1]

I know that "only+infinitve" is used to express something unexpected/dissapointing. For example; I rushed to the station only to find that the train had left. We can also use for after "only" and passive. For example, I spent a fortune on tutors only for my children to be expelled from the university. My question is can we use "just to" for the same purpose. I heard natives doning that. I rushed to the station just to find that the train had left. . I spent a fortune on tutors just for my children to be expelled from the university.

 

[jutfrank]

No, only 'only'.

 

[emsr2d2]

I know that "only+infinitive" is used to express something unexpected/dissapointing. For example, "I rushed to the station only to find that the train had left".

We can also use "for" after "only" and with the passive. For example, "I spent a fortune on tutors only for my children to be expelled from the university".

My question is Can we use "just to" for the same purpose? I have heard some natives native English speakers doning say that.

"I rushed to the station just to find that the train had left."
"I spent a fortune on tutors just for my children to be expelled from the university."

Note my corrections above.

 

[Skrej]

I rushed to the station just to find that the train had left. I spent a fortune on tutors just for my children to be expelled from the university.

Both seem perfectly natural and acceptable to me. I frequently use such constructions myself. I might even use 'just' more than 'only' in such cases.

I went to a lot of trouble to prepare a special make-up lesson on fractions for Timmy, just to have him skip class the day I presented it.

 

[BobK]

Note my corrections above.

Also 'di_s_a_pp_ointing';easy one to miss