ため

• Reading: ため
• Romaji: tame
• Pronunciation: /ta.me/

Meaning

For the sake of; in order to; because of. Indicates purpose, benefit, or cause.

A noun/adverb with two core uses: (1) purpose — 'in order to' (verb dictionary form + ために); (2) cause/reason — 'because of' (past tense or noun + ために). Also means 'for the benefit of' someone. The kanji 為 exists but hiragana is standard. Very common in both spoken and written Japanese.

Examples

1. 健康のために毎日運動しています。 I exercise every day for my health.
2. 試験に合格するために一生懸命勉強した。 I studied really hard in order to pass the exam.
3. 台風のため電車が止まりました。 The trains stopped because of the typhoon.

Usage Guide

Context: purpose, reason, benefit

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 為 originally depicted a hand guiding an elephant — the idea of 'doing something for a purpose.' Over time, the meaning narrowed to indicate purpose, benefit, and cause.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal