〜ために has two meanings depending on verb form:
Purpose (dictionary form) - 日本語を学ぶために (in order to learn Japanese)
Cause (た-form) - 雨が降ったために (because it rained)
For someone/thing (noun + の) - 健康のために (for health)
I came to Japan in order to study Japanese.
Purpose ために requires volitional verbs (intentional actions).
Dictionary form = purpose, た-form = cause
- 勉強するために (in order to study)
- 勉強したために (because I studied)
Purpose requires volitional verbs
- ✅ 会うために (to meet - intentional)
- ❌ 分かるために (can't intend to understand)
ために vs ように for purpose
- ために = direct action
- ように = indirect goal/change of state
Find real examples
Discover this pattern in manga, dramas & more
Save for spaced repetition
Add sentences to your study deck
Practice 〜ために and other grammar patterns with manga, dramas, and more.
Start learning free