JLPT N4 Neutral

tame ni

Used to describe the purpose or reason for an action; 'for the sake of', 'in order to', 'because of'.

Neutral, common purpose marker - "for the sake of/in order to"; safe in most contexts. (Verb-attached form of n4-010's のために.)

Formation

Explanation

The ために (tame ni) grammar point is used to express either the purpose of doing something (in which case it translates to 'for the sake of' or 'in order to') or the cause/reason for a situation (in which case it translates to 'because of'). Typically, we use the dictionary form of the verb (e.g., 合格する) for the 'in order to' meaning. For an adjective or noun, attach ために appropriately (い-Adjective + ために, な-Adjective + な + ために, Noun + の + ために).

Example sentences

  • I study every day in order to pass the exam.

    Shiken ni goukaku suru tame ni, mainichi benkyou shiteimasu.

  • For the sake of health, I must exercise daily.

    Kenkou no tame ni, mainichi undou shinakereba narimasen.

  • Because my work is busy, I don't have time to meet friends.

    Shigoto ga isogashii tame ni, tomodachi to au jikan ga arimasen.

  • The game was canceled because of the rain.

    Ame ga futta tame ni, shiai ga chuushi saremashita.

Purpose (In Order To / So That)