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γάρ

gár

G1063 coordinating conjunction

SILEX Entry

Definition

A postpositive conjunction introducing an explanation, reason, or clarification; primarily meaning 'for', 'because', 'indeed', or 'certainly'. γάρ frequently signals that what follows provides justification, ground, or elaboration for a preceding statement or clause. Its semantic range includes logical connection ('for'), explanation ('because'), affirmation ('indeed'), and emphasis ('certainly'), as well as, in some cases, transitional or intensifying functions.

Semantic Range

for (explanatory), because, indeed, certainly, after all, since, yes indeed, for you see

Root / Etymology

etymology uncertain. γάρ is an early Greek conjunction; often considered a contracted form of γε ἄρα (ge + ara), though this is not universally accepted and its ultimate origin is unclear.

Historical & Contextual Notes

γάρ is a frequent conjunction from early classical Greek through Koine, always placed after its first word (postpositive). In classical texts, it regularly introduces explanatory or evidential clauses. In the Septuagint and New Testament, γάρ functions extensively to link thoughts, introduce scriptural citations, add clarifying refutations, or supply grounds for exhortations. Unlike ὅτι ('that, because'), which may give content (like speech or direct cause), γάρ functions more to support reasoning or motivation for the preceding idea. English translations often render γάρ as 'for' or 'because', but these do not always capture its full nuance—especially its role in narrative or discourse structure, where it can serve to highlight, expand, or refute a previous clause. In Hellenistic and Koine prose, γάρ’s explanatory function remains primary, though its stylistic uses vary, sometimes strengthening or confirming a statement rather than merely explaining it.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

a primary particle; properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles):--and, as, because (that), but, even, for, indeed, no doubt, seeing, then, therefore, verily, what, why, yet.

Root Family

γάρ (gar) — to explain, to give reason, to affirm

Root γάρ- to explain, to give reason, to affirm

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1063-01 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for 1041

Occurrences in Scripture

1041 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1063-01 Matthew 1:20 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 1:21 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 2:2 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 2:5 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 2:6 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 2:13 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 2:20 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 3:2 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 3:3 γάρ gar CONJ for for for
G1063-01 Matthew 3:9 γὰρ gar CONJ for for for
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