〜ために (cause)
because of ~
Connect an action to the goal it is meant to achieve.
Remember it
Goal in mind, action in front: link them with 〜ために (cause).
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ために (cause)」 means "because of ~". Structure: Noun の + ために. This is a JLPT N3 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Use it for goals, preparation, instructions, and explaining why you take an action.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Getting around
Example 1成功のために電車が遅れました。
せいこう の ため に でんしゃ が おくれました。
seikou no tame ni densha ga okuremashita.
The train was delayed because of the success.
Getting around
Example 2安心のために電車が遅れました。
あんしん の ため に でんしゃ が おくれました。
anshin no tame ni densha ga okuremashita.
The train was delayed because of the relief.
Getting around
Example 3原因のために電車が遅れました。
げんいん の ため に でんしゃ が おくれました。
gen'in no tame ni densha ga okuremashita.
The train was delayed because of the cause.
Getting around
Example 4能力のために電車が遅れました。
のうりょく の ため に でんしゃ が おくれました。
nouryoku no tame ni densha ga okuremashita.
The train was delayed because of the ability.
Getting around
Example 5態度のために電車が遅れました。
たいど の ため に でんしゃ が おくれました。
taido no tame ni densha ga okuremashita.
The train was delayed because of the attitude.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
The train was delayed because of the success.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ために (cause).
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.