Japanese grammar
What does ～ために (purpose) mean? Japanese grammar N4
～ために (purpose) means in order to ~, for the purpose of ~.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N4 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vる + ために N + のために |
| Romaji | ~ tame ni |
| Meaning | in order to ~, for the purpose of ~ |
How to use it
Stating a deliberate goal that the person performing the action in the latter clause actively works toward.
- In the purpose meaning, ために goes with an intentional verb, and the subject of both clauses is usually the same. The latter clause is the means/action used to achieve the goal in the former clause.
- If the goal is an ability, an unintentional state, or avoiding something, ように is more natural. With nouns, Nのために can also mean "for the sake of N."
Examples
日本で働くために、日本語を勉強しています。
I study Japanese in order to work in Japan.
健康のために、毎朝三十分歩いています。
For my health, I walk for thirty minutes every morning.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong漢字が読めるために、練習します。
Correct漢字が読めるように、練習します。
読める is the potential form, so a goal that's a state should use ように, not ために.
Exam tips
- Dictionary-form verb with intent + an active action in the latter clause → ために; potential form/negative → ように.