for a larger cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a larger cause" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to actions or efforts that are intended to benefit a significant or important purpose beyond individual interests. Example: "Many volunteers joined the movement for a larger cause, aiming to make a difference in their community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We sacrificed the body as an instrument of war, for a larger cause".

The New Yorker

I had a sense of solidarity for a larger cause and the desire to help others.

The New York Times

Artists today, he said, lack the courage to put their careers in jeopardy for a larger cause.

The New York Times

Patients just need to realize that they are doing this for a larger cause, not necessarily their own interest.

The New York Times - Health

"My generation is in a way spoilt and we've forgotten what it means to make personal sacrifices for a larger cause – but that's also where life really begins".

The Guardian

A character who should emerge as a principled, far-sighted prefigurement of a civil-rights activist, burning to sacrifice herself for a larger cause, comes across as a cranky, not-so-Southern eccentric: likable, yes, but not especially impassioned or charismatic.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Some people had come up; very many more had been destroyed; and no one could say for sure that a larger cause had been served.

The New Yorker

The retired Goodyear Tire Company executive reveals how she discovered she'd been paid less systematically for 30 years because of her gender, began advocating for herself with her employer, and then realized she had a larger cause working for equal pay on behalf of all women through the courts and the legislative process.

Forbes

That he is none of those things should disturb our sleep, but there is a larger cause for unease.

The New Yorker

But the stock markets had hoped for a larger cut, causing stock prices to drop sharply.

The New York Times

If it founders, this would be an extraordinary setback for the larger cause of European integration.Charlemagne's coinEurope's creation of a single currency remains both futuristic and weighted with history.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for a larger cause", ensure that the cause is clearly defined or easily understood within the context. This adds weight and credibility to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "for a larger cause" as a blanket justification for actions that might be questionable or unethical. Ensure there's genuine alignment between the action and the purported cause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a larger cause" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to explain the reason or motivation behind an action. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and used to show that an action is done in support of something significant.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for a larger cause" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express motivation rooted in altruism and dedication to something beyond oneself. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is deemed correct and usable in written English. While versatile, the phrase is more commonly found in news and media, scientific contexts, and wiki entries. When employing this phrase, writers should ensure that the "cause" is well-defined and that its use is justified to avoid any sense of self-serving rationalization. Alternatives like ""for a greater purpose"" or "for the common good" offer similar connotations and can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a greater purpose

Replaces "cause" with "purpose", emphasizing the intentionality and direction of the effort.

in service of something bigger

Shifts the focus to the act of serving, highlighting the dedication to a grander entity or goal.

for the common good

Specifically targets efforts that benefit the community or society as a whole.

for the sake of others

Highlights the altruistic nature of the action, emphasizing the benefit to other people.

to make a difference

Focuses on the impact and positive change resulting from the effort.

for a noble endeavor

Replaces 'cause' with 'endeavor', adding a sense of honor and worthiness to the activity.

in pursuit of a higher ideal

Emphasizes the aspirational and moral dimension of the goal.

to advance a greater agenda

Highlights a planned or organized set of purposes or goals, usually with long-term impact.

to contribute to something meaningful

Focuses on the personal satisfaction and value derived from the contribution.

in furtherance of a grand design

Emphasizes that actions are part of a larger, overarching plan or vision.

FAQs

How can I use "for a larger cause" in a sentence?

You can use "for a larger cause" to explain why someone is making sacrifices or working towards a goal that benefits more than just themselves. For example, "They volunteered their time "for a greater purpose" believing it would improve the community."

What are some alternative phrases to "for a larger cause"?

Some alternatives include ""for a greater purpose"", "for the common good", or "in service of something bigger". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "for a larger cause"?

While grammatically correct, using "for a larger cause" is only appropriate when the cause is genuinely significant and benefits a wider group. Misusing the phrase to justify personal gain or questionable actions can undermine its credibility.

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

"For a good cause" generally refers to any beneficial or charitable aim. "For a larger cause" implies a cause that is not only good but also significant in scope and impact, often involving social, political, or ethical dimensions.