〜べく

In order to...; With the intention of...

1. Overview

「〜べく」 is a grammatical structure used to express taking an action with a specific goal in mind. It is a formal expression, often found in literary or official writing, conveying a strong sense of purpose compared to the more commonly used 「〜ために」.

2. Structure

• Verb (dictionary form) + べく
• Exception: 「する」 becomes 「するべく」 or 「すべく」

3. Usage Explanation

• Expressing Purpose:
  「〜べく」 indicates the speaker’s intention to achieve a certain goal and the subsequent action taken to fulfill this goal.

• Formal Style:
  It’s typically used in formal contexts, adding a sense of seriousness or gravity to the statement.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "in order to...", "with the intention of...", or "for the purpose of...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼は試験に合格すべく、一生懸命勉強している。
   He is studying hard in order to pass the exam.

2. 新しいビジネスを成功させるべく、彼は多くの計画を立てている。
   He is making many plans with the intention of making his new business a success.

3. 平和な社会を築くべく、多くの人々が活動している。
   Many people are actively working to build a peaceful society.

4. チャンピオンになるべく、毎日厳しいトレーニングをしている。
   He is undergoing rigorous training every day in order to become the champion.

5. 環境問題の改善を目指すべく、彼らは新しい技術を研究している。
   They are researching new technologies to address environmental issues.

5. Key Points to Note

• Formality:
  「〜べく」 is primarily used in formal or written contexts and is not commonly found in casual conversation.

• Difference from「ために」:
  「〜べく」 is more formal and emphasizes intentionality, while 「〜ために」 is more neutral and widely used in both formal and informal situations.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜ために: Indicates the purpose of an action and is more commonly used in everyday speech.
  • Example: 試験に合格するために、彼は毎日勉強している。
    He studies every day to pass the exam.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ように: Used to indicate hope for achieving a certain result.
  • Example: 成功するように、彼は努力している。
    He is working hard in hopes of succeeding.

8. Summary

「〜べく」 expresses a clear and intentional purpose, conveying a formal tone suited to literary or official contexts. It implies a strong motivation to achieve the stated goal.