a greater cause

USAGE SUMMARY

"a greater cause" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a cause that is more important than another. For example: "Many people have dedicated their lives to a greater cause."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Except all over the world, people are defying it for a greater cause.

The Guardian

But like other protesters, he said a greater cause was at stake.

The New York Times

But some who commute to the games have a sense of commitment to a greater cause.

The New York Times - Sports

Do it for a greater cause: audiences desperate for new, compelling voices.

The New York Times - Arts

Cavendish said: "For me personally, one of the biggest incentives is riding for a greater cause in the Qhubeka charity.

The Guardian - Sport

The poignancy of Martin Luther King's "Dream" speech is in his personal experience enmeshed with a greater cause.

The Guardian - Opinion

"In the U.S., flooding is a greater cause of death than lightning or tornadoes, and presumably poses similar risks elsewhere".

The New York Times - Science

Wicket!! Kumar Sangakkara run out 43 Sanga goes Sydney Carton, chucking away his wicket for a greater cause.

The Guardian - Sport

After getting back from deployments, we always told ourselves what we had done was all for a greater cause.

The New York Times

With increasing levels of personal data flying around the internet, and now between devices, security is a greater cause for concern.

The Guardian

Choose her friend instead, and the video leads to sports fans downing shots, with the lyrics "I want to work less / but for a greater cause".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a greater cause", ensure the context clearly establishes what that cause is and why it is considered 'greater'. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Don't use "a greater cause" as a blanket justification for questionable actions without clearly defining and supporting the cause itself. Unsubstantiated claims can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater cause" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or verb. It identifies a purpose or objective that is considered more significant or important than others. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where it clarifies motivations and justifications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater cause" is a versatile phrase used to justify actions by appealing to a more significant purpose, as verified by Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase, often found in news, business, and science contexts. The phrase carries a neutral tone, although its formality depends on the surrounding text. Remember, using "a greater cause" effectively involves clearly defining and substantiating the cause itself to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives like "a higher purpose" or "a more important reason" for formal contexts. Be careful not to use it as a blanket justification without proper ethical considerations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more important reason

Focuses on the importance of the reason behind an action, shifting emphasis from the cause itself to its significance.

a higher purpose

Highlights the elevated or noble nature of the objective, adding a sense of moral or ethical importance.

a nobler aim

Emphasizes the moral superiority and ambition of the goal, suggesting a more virtuous direction.

a significant objective

Focuses on the notable and impactful nature of the goal, emphasizing the importance of the outcome.

a compelling reason

Stresses the persuasive and convincing nature of the motivation, highlighting the strength of the rationale.

a worthwhile endeavor

Highlights the value and merit of the undertaking, suggesting a task that is deserving of time and effort.

a meaningful pursuit

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the activity, suggesting a quest that provides personal value or societal impact.

a critical mission

Focuses on the essential and vital nature of the undertaking, stressing its importance for achieving a specific outcome.

a fundamental principle

Highlights the underlying belief or value that guides actions, emphasizing its foundational role.

a overarching ambition

Shifts the focus to an encompassing and primary aspiration that directs efforts and shapes decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "a greater cause" in a sentence?

You can use "a greater cause" to explain someone's motivation to act in service of something bigger than themselves. For example, "They sacrificed personal comfort for "a greater cause"".

What's a more formal way to say "a greater cause"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a higher purpose" or "a more important reason" to maintain a formal tone. The choice depends on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "a greater cause" and "a good cause"?

"A good cause" generally refers to any benevolent objective, while "a greater cause" implies a higher level of importance or significance, often involving substantial impact or widespread benefit. "A greater cause" may require significant sacrifices or dedication.

Is it correct to use "a greater cause" to justify unethical actions?

While "a greater cause" can be used to explain motivations, it doesn't automatically justify unethical behavior. Ethical considerations should always be paramount, and actions taken in the name of any cause should be scrutinized for their moral implications.