sake

[[t]se͟ɪk[/t]]

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sakes

1) PHRASE: PHR n If you do something for the sake of something, you do it for that purpose or in order to achieve that result. You can also say that you do it for something's sake.

Let's assume for the sake of argument that we manage to build a satisfactory database...

For the sake of historical accuracy, please permit us to state the true facts...

For safety's sake, never stand directly behind a horse.

2) PHRASE: usu n PHR If you do something for its own sake, you do it because you want to, or because you enjoy it, and not for any other reason. You can also talk about, for example, art for art's sake or sport for sport's sake.

Economic change for its own sake did not appeal to him...

I just like car trips for their own sake.

...a love of truth and learning for its own sake.

3) PHRASE: N inflects, PHR with cl When you do something for someone's sake, you do it in order to help them or make them happy.

I trust you to do a good job for Stan's sake...

Linda knew that for both their sakes she must take drastic action.

4) PHRASE: N inflects, PHR with cl (feelings) Some people use expressions such as for God's sake, for heaven's sake, for goodness sake, or for Pete's sake in order to express annoyance or impatience, or to add force to a question or request. The expressions `for God's sake' and `for Christ's sake' could cause offence. [INFORMAL]

For goodness sake, why didn't you ring me?...

You've got a computer system, for heaven's sake.