for the sake of

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

2. 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]

3. for God's sake . Also for goodness or heaven's or Pete's or pity's sake . 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.

Example Sentences

They were ready for pleasure, and also were willing (volis) to work energetically for-the-sake-of the new young world.

From Project Gutenberg