What is this grammar?

〜んがため（に） is a very formal, literary expression meaning:

• “In order to…”
• “For the purpose of…”

It expresses a strong, deliberate intention to achieve something.
Used in serious writing, speeches, and official documents.

Structure

Notes:

• Drop the 「ない」 from the negative form and add 「んがため」
• する → せんがため（に）
  (classical form of “する”)

Meaning in Context

Used when:

• Expressing a clear, strong purpose
• Describing something done with all effort focused on a specific goal
• In contexts requiring formal, high-level language

English equivalents:

• “In order to…”
• “For the sake of…”
• “For the purpose of achieving…”

Example Sentences

Nuances & Tone

• Highly formal and literary — rarely used in conversation
• Stronger and more classical than 〜べく
• Often seen in:
  • Newspaper editorials
  • Historical novels
  • Ceremonial speeches
  • Official statements

It conveys determination and focus toward achieving a serious goal.

Comparison with Similar Patterns

Example:

• 合格するために、勉強する。→ normal
• 合格すべく、勉強する。→ formal
• 合格せんがため、勉強する。→ very formal, literary

Practice Exercise

Translate into Japanese using ～んがため:

1. In order to protect peace, people took action.
2. In order to survive, he made a difficult decision.
3. In order to fulfill his duty, he worked without rest.

Possible Answers:

1. 平和を守らんがため、人々は行動を起こした。
2. 生き残らんがため、彼は苦渋の決断を下した。
3. 任務を果たさんがため、彼は休まず働いた。

Summary Table

Pro Tip:

You’ll most likely find this in:

• N1 reading comprehension questions
• Historical books
• Formal announcements
• Editorials or essays

thuandao

I’m a software engineer based in Japan, with experience in developing web and mobile applications. I’m passionate about technology, especially in DevOps, AI, and app development using platforms like AWS, Flutter, and Node.js. My goal is to build a website that shares knowledge about the Japanese language and IT, helping everyone learn and grow more easily in the digital era.