For Your Sake: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
July 21, 2023

The idiom "for your sake" means "in the interests of your health or happiness." In other words, out of consideration or regard for a person or thing. Moreover, to satisfy the demands of someone or something.

In short:

  • It can mean "for the purpose or benefit of someone or something."
  • The word "sake" has largely been replaced by "case" and "cause".

What Does "For Your Sake" Mean?

The idiom "for your sake" means out of regard or respect for someone or oneself; for the benefit, advantage, or sound of oneself or another person. It is often used to show concern, advice, warning, motivation, or gratitude for someone's well-being or happiness.

For example:

  • I hope you quit smoking "for your sake." (concern)
  • It would help if you studied hard "for your sake." (advice)
  • Please don't lie to me, "for your sake." (warning)
  • I'm doing this "for your sake." (motivation)

Where Does "For Your Sake" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "for your sake" is not very clear, but it may have originated from religious contexts. Furthermore, the phrase has been used since the early 1200s.

In addition, one possible source is the Bible, where the phrase "for thy name's sake" appears several times in different books and translations. This phrase means for the honor or glory of God's name, because of God's reputation or character, to demonstrate God's power or mercy.

Since then, the idiom has been used in different texts and methods of expression.

Historical Example

"And for no other cause or sake, but only that these tales were fake, contrary things to his own creed"

-Canterbury Tales, Chaucer, 1387

10 Examples of "For Your Sake" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom "for your sake" in different sentences, demonstrating different contexts and situations.

  • It's weird, and it doesn't add up. I hope you're telling the truth, for your sake.
  • For your sake, you must quit smoking to live a longer life.
  • It would be best to study hard for your sake, not for anyone else's.
  • For your sake, I hope you like your living room. You have already spent a fortune on furniture.
  • I'm sorry, but I can't help you anymore. You have to do this for your own sake. See you soon.
  • I don't care what you think. I'm doing this for your sake, not mine.
  • I hope for your sake that happens. Age is just a number. Thus, it's not yet late to graduate from college.
  • I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake. You are my son, after all.
  • Jenna sacrificed for your sake. So don't forget what she has done for you.
  • Your father went through all that trouble for your sake. You couldn't ask for more.

Examples of "For Your Sake" in Pop Culture

The idiom "for your sake" has also been used in various songs, movies, books, and TV shows.

Here are some examples:

  • In the song "For Your Sake" by Shinedown, the singer says:

    "I'm not here "for your sake". You're not here for my sake. We're just killing time, killing time."

  • In the TV show Breaking Bad (2008-2013), Walter White tells Jesse Pinkman:

    "I have no intention of being around for the boom. "For your sake" and mine, I think it's best to end this thing right here and now."

Other Ways to Say "For Your Sake"

  • for your good
  • for your best interest
  • for your benefit
  • for your welfare
  • for your well-being
  • for your happiness
  • for your advantage
  • for your convenience
  • for your satisfaction
  • for your peace of mind

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "For Your Sake"

Here are some frequently asked questions about the idiom "for your sake":

  • What does "for your sake" mean?

It means the same as “for Pete's sake,” but it is a less offensive way of expressing frustration, anger, or disbelief.

  • What are other words for "sake"?

Some other words to replace sake in "for your sake" are "case," "cause," "reason," or "purpose."

  • How do you use "for your sake" in a sentence?

You can use it to show that you are doing something or want someone to do something in their own interest or happiness.

Example: You should go to bed early "for your sake," you have a big day tomorrow.

  • Is "for your sake" formal or informal?

It is neither formal nor informal, but rather neutral. Therefore, you can use it in both casual and formal situations.

  • What is the opposite of "for your sake"?

The opposite of "for your sake" is "against your will" or "despite your wishes."

Example: They forced him to go to rehab against his will, which is a bit too much.

  • Can you say "for my sake"?

Yes, you can say "for my sake" to mean that you are doing something or want someone to do something in your own interest or happiness.

Example: Please don't lie to me, "for my sake." I can't bear it anymore!

  • Can you say "for our sake"?

Yes, you can say "for our sake" to mean that you are doing something or want someone to do something in the interest or happiness of both yourself and another person or group.

Example: We need to work together "for our sake." Let's give it a shot!

  • Can you say "for their sake"?

Yes, you can say "for their sake" to mean that you are doing something or want someone to do something in the interest or happiness of another person or group.

Example: They moved to a better neighborhood "for their sake."

  • Can you say "for its sake"?

Yes, you can say "for its sake" to mean that you are doing something or want someone to do something in the interest or benefit of an object, an animal, an idea, etc.

Example: He waters the plant every day "for its sake."

  • Can you say "for the sake of something"??

Yes, you can say "for the sake of something" to mean that you are doing something or want someone to do something for the purpose or benefit of something.

Example: She stayed calm "for the sake" of peace.

Final Thoughts About "For Your Sake"

"For your sake" is a common idiom that means out of regard or respect for someone or oneself; for the benefit, advantage, or good of oneself or another person.

Some key points to remember about "for your sake":

  • "For your sake" refers to "for your own interest or benefits."
  • The idiom can be used in different sentences, contexts, and situations.
  • The phrase can also be used with other pronouns, such as "for his sake," "for her sake," etc.
  • The idiom can be used in various situations to express concern, advice, warning, motivation, or gratitude.
  • Finally, there are some variations and related expressions that have a similar meaning to "for your sake," such as "for the sake of," "for God's sake," "for Pete's sake," etc.

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