for the sake of

Idioms  

1. Also for one's sake . Out of consideration or regard for a person or thing; for someone's or something's advantage or good. For example, For Jill's sake we did not serve meat , or We have to stop fighting for the sake of family unity . [Early 1200s]

2. For the purpose or motive of, as in You like to quarrel only for the sake of an argument. [Early 1200s]

3. for God's sake . Also . An exclamation showing surprise, impatience, anger, or some other emotion, depending on the context. For example, For God's sake, I didn't expect to see you here , or Hurry up, for goodness sake , or For heaven's sake, how can you say such a mean thing? or For pity's sake, finish your dinner . The variants are euphemisms for God. [c. 1300] For a synonym, see for the love of , def. 2.

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Example Sentences

Evan Bernick: Justice Barrett likes to show why history supports a rule that makes sense rather than doing history just for the sake of history.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

But worsening air quality in the Thai city, especially during this time of the year, have prompted them to consider relocating for the sake of their children.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

“Oftentimes women, especially women of color, we end up having to hold so many things for the sake of the movement, family, community,” Delia Ramirez told the 19th.

From Salon • Mar. 22, 2026

And it’s all jokes and a lot of it isn’t even real so if you get too upset, just realize half of this stuff is just made up for the sake of humor.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

There’s no way he can look at her right now, so he grabs his road map for the sake of somewhere to put his eyes just in case.

From "Clean Getaway" by Nic Stone