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English (UK)
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English
Meaning of for in English
forpreposition uk
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strong /fɔːr/ weak /fər/ us
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strong /fɔːr/ weak /fɚ/
for preposition
(INTENDED FOR)
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A1 intended to be given to: There's a phone message for you. I'd better buy something for the new baby. There's a prize for the fastest three runners in each category.
More examplesFewer examplesWe're having a collection for Tom's retirement present.Your shoes will be repaired and ready for you to collect on Thursday.A young girl came up to me and asked for money.There's a letter for you on the table.There'll be a prize for the best entry.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Belongings and possessions
accoutrements
asset
belongings
capital assets
chattel
effect
estate
in the name of something idiom
lost property
lost property office
lost-and-found
materially
personal property
personalty
possession
property
resource
stuff
swag
thing
See more results »
for preposition
(PURPOSE)
A2 having the purpose of: There's a sign there saying "boats for hire". This pool is for the use of hotel guests only. I'm sorry, the books are not for sale. They've invited us for dinner on Saturday. Everyone in the office is contributing money for his leaving present. I need some money for tonight. Which vitamins should you take for (= in order to cure) skin problems? Put those clothes in a pile for washing (= so that they can be washed).
More examplesFewer examplesI need some money for tonight.There are several plots of land for sale.We had some friends round for lunch yesterday.The polish is not for use on wooden surfaces.Don't take the game too seriously, it's just for fun.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Goals and purposes
affordance
ambition
avail
cause
dedicated
deflect
dream
eye
function
it's the thought that counts idiom
key performance indicator
KPI
moonshot
objective
target
target setting
thought
towards
undedicated
undirected
See more results »
for preposition
(BECAUSE OF)
A2 because of or as a result of something: I'm feeling all the better for my holiday. "How are you?" "Fine, and all the better for seeing you!" She did 15 years in prison for murder. I don't eat meat for various reasons. I couldn't see for the tears in my eyes. The things you do for love! He's widely disliked in the company for his arrogance. She couldn't talk for coughing (= she was coughing too much to talk). Scotland is famous for its spectacular countryside. He's best remembered for his novels. I didn't say anything for fear of (= because I was frightened of) offending him.
if it wasn't/weren't for (also if it hadn't been for)
without: If it wasn't for the life jacket, I would have drowned.
See more
More examplesFewer examplesThe pitcher is famous for the speed of his delivery.He decided to forsake politics for journalism.Coppola garnered several Oscar awards for 'The Godfather'.I think he's trying to get back at her for those remarks she made in the meeting.She was publicly acclaimed for her contribution to the discovery.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Linguistics: connecting words which introduce a cause or reason
as
case
courtesy
cuz
dint
due
except
except that idiom
herein
inasmuch as
insofar as
light
necessarily
now
since
that
thing
view
what
with a view to doing something idiom
See more results »
for preposition
(TIME/DISTANCE)
A1 used to show an amount of time or distance: We walked for miles. She's out of the office for a few days next week. I'm just going to lie down for an hour or so. I haven't played tennis for years.
More examplesFewer examplesWe get cut-rate electricity for six hours each night.Mr Black has been a client of this firm for many years.The network will be down for an hour for routine maintenance.I feel like I've been cooped up in this flat for days.It feels like we've been walking for miles.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Describing when something happened or will happen
at
be
coincident
coincidently
demand
executory
hundred
immediately
line
longitudinally
movable feast
notice
on demand idiom
one
possible
somewhere along the line idiom
time
up
within
zero hour
See more results »
for preposition
(OCCASION)
A2 on the occasion of or at the time of: What did you buy him for Christmas? I'd like an appointment with the doctor for some time this week. We're having a party for Jim's 60th birthday. I've booked a table at the restaurant for nine o'clock.
More examplesFewer examplesThey planned a special celebration for her homecoming.They're making the most elaborate preparations for the wedding.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Describing when something happened or will happen
at
be
coincident
coincidently
demand
executory
hundred
immediately
line
longitudinally
movable feast
notice
on demand idiom
one
possible
somewhere along the line idiom
time
up
within
zero hour
See more results »
for preposition
(COMPARING)
C1 used for comparing one thing with others of the same type: She's very mature for her age. For every two people in favour of the law there are three against. The winter has been unusually cold for Florida. It was a difficult decision, especially for a child. For a man of his wealth he's not exactly generous.
More examplesFewer examplesShe's rather immature for her age, don't you think?For every two people in favour of the law there are three against.For a man of his wealth he's not exactly generous.He plays very well for a beginner.Can I swap this t-shirt for another one?
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Comparing and contrasting
analogy
antithesis
apple
as against idiom
balance something against something
comparative
competitively
contradistinction
contrast
contrastive
contrastively
mutatis mutandis
next
nonrelative
perspective
relative
relativity
shame
stack
work-life balance
See more results »
for preposition
(RESPONSIBILITY)
C1 used to say whose responsibility something is: She knew the driver of the other car was not responsible for her son's death.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Duty, obligation and responsibility
accountable
accountable to someone
accountably
answer for something
buck
commitment
duty
duty of care
fail
fall to someone
fiefdom
gotta
obliged
on your own head be it idiom
ought to
owe someone a living idiom
preserve
shoulder
someone's answer to someone/something idiom
the onus
See more results »
for preposition
(SUPPORT)
B2 in support of or in agreement with: I voted for the Greens at the last election. Those voting for the motion, 96, and those voting against, 54. Most of the Republicans voted for the measure. So let's hear some applause for these talented young performers. Who's for (= who wants to play) tennis?
be all for something
to approve of or support something very much: I've got nothing against change - I'm all for it.
See more
More examplesFewer examplesI'm all for making changes to the system.Are you for or against the new proposals?Who will you be voting for at the next election?Three cheers for the winner!Anyone for coffee?
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Backing, supporting & defending
adopt
advocacy
affirmation
ally yourself to/with someone
argumentation
badge
bailout
bet
buoy
champion
flag-waving
keep the flag flying idiom
patronage
rec
recommended
red carpet
right behind someone idiom
roll out the red carpet idiom
root
stick together
See more results »
for preposition
(HELP)
B1 in order to help someone: Let me carry those bags for you. Hello, what can I do for you? My sister will take care of the dog for us while we're away.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Helping and co-operating
abet
accommodative
any port in a storm idiom
assist
assist with something
attend
carry
errand of mercy idiom
facilitate
facilitation
financial assistance
give someone a leg up idiom
leg
rally
recourse
relief
run errands idiom
share a platform idiom
sponsor
start (something) off
See more results »
for preposition
(IN RELATION TO)
in relation to someone or something: Her feelings for him had changed. He felt nothing but contempt for her. I've got a lot of admiration for people who do that sort of work. He's quite good-looking but he's too short for me. The ice-cream was a little bit sweet for me. That jacket looks a little big for you.as for Jackie's already left and, as for me, I'm going at the end of the month. Luckily for me (= I was lucky), I already had another job. How are you doing for money/time (= do you have enough money/time)?
for all
C2 despite: For all her qualifications, she's still useless at the job.
See more
More examplesFewer examplesThe children had a lot of respect for their teacher.Her feelings for him had changed.Police are still looking for clues in their search for the missing girl.He had a deep affection for his aunt.She was afraid for her children.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Linking and relating
affiliated
AL
appertain to something
applicable
around
collateral
ecosystem
equation
interconnect
interconnected
interconnectedness
interconnection
intercorrelate
recoupling
relatability
relatable
relate
relate to someone/something
relatedly
weld
See more results »
for preposition
(PAYMENT)
A2 (getting) in exchange: How much did you pay for your glasses? I've sponsored her £1 for every mile that she runs. She sold the house for a lot of money. The mechanic said he'd repair my car for £300.
More examplesFewer examplesHow much did you pay for the tickets?I've got £20 000 worth of cover for the contents of my house.£4 for an orange juice? That's just daylight robbery!A collector would pay $500 for a mint copy.The company pays £220 a week for people to act as couriers.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Paying money
2FA
2SV
ante up (something)
burn a hole in someone's pocket idiom
buying power
cost-cutting
fund
non-contributory
overpaid
put someone through something
put something towards something
reimburse
run to something
self-finance
set someone back (something)
spend
spent
splurge
sponsor
tipper
See more results »
for preposition
(REPRESENTING)
B1 being employed by or representing a company, country, etc.: She works for a charity. He swam for the United States in the 2000 Olympics.
More examplesFewer examplesHe plays for Manchester United.Many people in the town used to work for the steel company.She's been capped for Scotland nine times.I've been out canvassing for the Labour Party every evening this week.Do you still work for the government?
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Replacing and exchanging
alternate
alternatively
bargain
bargain something away
behalf
change over
compensation
instead of
lieu
make up for something
name
novate
someone's answer to someone/something idiom
spell
step into the breach idiom
sub out something
substitutability
substitutable
substitute
substitution
See more results »
for preposition
(TOWARDS)
A2 towards; in the direction of: They looked as if they were heading for the train station. Just follow signs for the museum. This time tomorrow we'll be setting off for the States. It says this train is for (= going to stop at) Birmingham and Coventry only.
More examplesFewer examplesFollow the signs for the train station.They were running for the bus.The roads were busy with people heading for the coast.The team was on course for victory.The alarm sent people scrambling for the exits.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Describing movement towards
-wards
-ways
at
convergent
earthward
facing
forward
forwards
hither
inwards
on
oncoming
onward
onwards
thither
to
up
ward
way
wise
See more results »
for preposition
(MEANING)
A2 showing meaning: What's the Spanish word for "vegetarian"?stand for What does the "M.J." stand for? Maria José?
More examplesFewer examplesWhat's that symbol for?LCD stands for liquid crystal display.We had to learn chemical formulae at school, but I can only remember H2O for water.The green light is for go.Alpha is used for the letter A.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Meaning & significance
acceptation
add
add up to something
backspin
badge
be a badge of something idiom
interpretable
locution
locutionary
meaning
meaningfully
meaningfulness
purport
sense
significant
speak
subtext
subtextually
use
what's with something? idiom
See more results »
for preposition
(TO GET)
A2 in order to get or achieve: I hate waiting for public transport. I had to run for the bus. Did you send off for details of the competition? I've applied for a job with another computer company.
More examplesFewer examplesHe wrote off for more information.The film was nominated for an Academy Award.I've applied for several jobs since leaving university.You have to get there early for the best seats.50 percent is needed for a pass.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Goals and purposes
affordance
ambition
avail
cause
dedicated
deflect
dream
eye
function
it's the thought that counts idiom
key performance indicator
KPI
moonshot
objective
target
target setting
thought
towards
undedicated
undirected
See more results »
for preposition
(DUTY)
the duty or responsibility of: As to whether you should marry him - that's for you to decide. It's not for me to tell her what she should do with her life. "How many people should I invite to the party?" "It's not really for me to say."
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Duty, obligation and responsibility
accountable
accountable to someone
accountably
answer for something
buck
commitment
duty
duty of care
fail
fall to someone
fiefdom
gotta
obliged
on your own head be it idiom
ought to
owe someone a living idiom
preserve
shoulder
someone's answer to someone/something idiom
the onus
See more results »
for preposition
(IN TROUBLE)
for it UK informal (mainly US in for it)
in trouble: You'll be for it when she finds out!
See more
Grammar
ForFor is usually a preposition and sometimes a conjunction. …
For: purposeWe use for to talk about a purpose or a reason for something: …
For someoneWe often use for to introduce the person or people receiving something: …
For: durationWe use for with a period of time to refer to duration (how long something lasts): …
For: exchangeWe use for to refer to an exchange: …
For meaning becauseWe sometimes use for as a conjunction meaning ‘because’. We use it in very formal, and often literary, contexts: …
For in multi-word verbsWe often combine for with a verb to form a multi-word verb: …
For + -ingWe use for + the -ing form of a verb to talk about the function of something or how something is used: …
For + -ing: functionWe use for + the -ing form of a verb to talk about the function of something or how something is used: …
For + -ing: reasonWe use for + the -ing form of a verb to refer to the reason for something: …
For + -ing or to + infinitive?We don’t use for + -ing to express our purpose or intention. We use to + infinitive: …
During or for?We use during to say when something happens, if it happens in or over a period of time. We use for to talk about the length of time something lasts. …
For or since?We use for with a period of time in the past, present or future. …
Idioms
for all someone cares/knows
that/there's ... for you
what ... for?
forconjunction
old-fashioned or literary uk
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strong /fɔːr/ weak /fər/ us
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strong /fɔːr/ weak /fɚ/
for conjunction
(BECAUSE)
because; as: She remained silent, for her heart was heavy and her spirits low.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Linguistics: connecting words which introduce a cause or reason
as
case
courtesy
cuz
dint
due
except
except that idiom
herein
inasmuch as
insofar as
light
necessarily
now
since
that
thing
view
what
with a view to doing something idiom
See more results »
Grammar
ForFor is usually a preposition and sometimes a conjunction. …
For: purposeWe use for to talk about a purpose or a reason for something: …
For someoneWe often use for to introduce the person or people receiving something: …
For: durationWe use for with a period of time to refer to duration (how long something lasts): …
For: exchangeWe use for to refer to an exchange: …
For meaning becauseWe sometimes use for as a conjunction meaning ‘because’. We use it in very formal, and often literary, contexts: …
For in multi-word verbsWe often combine for with a verb to form a multi-word verb: …
(Definition of for from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)
for | American Dictionary
forpreposition us
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/fɔr, fər/
for preposition
(TO BE GIVEN)
Add to word list
Add to word list
intended to be given to: There’s a phone message for you on your desk. There will be a prize for the best costume at the party.
for preposition
(PURPOSE)
having the purpose of: What do you imagine he uses this old thing for? Why don’t you take an aspirin for your headache (= to stop it)?
for preposition
(BECAUSE OF)
because of; as a result of (doing something): She was stopped for speeding. The things we do for love! For some reason, she isn’t interested in going out at all tonight. Certain Chicago restaurants are famous for their deep-dish pizza.
for preposition
(INSTEAD OF)
instead of; to help: Let me carry those groceries to the car for you.
for preposition
(TIME/DISTANCE)
showing amount of time or distance: We drove for miles. She’s out of town for a few days on business.
for preposition
(OCCASION)
on the occasion of or at the time of: What are you getting Mom and Dad for their anniversary? We’re planning a party for Stephen’s birthday. The neighbors invited us for dinner (= to eat with them). What’s for lunch (= what will we eat)?
for preposition
(CONSIDERING)
considering (something or someone with reference to things or people as they usually are): This winter has been mild for Canada. I think Kristy is very mature for her age.
for preposition
(SUPPORT)
in support of or agreement with: I voted for her in the last election. We thought about moving, and I was all for it, but my wife didn’t want to.
for preposition
(IN RELATION TO)
in relation to (someone or something): Her feelings for him were obvious. That jacket is a bit big for you.
for preposition
(PAYMENT)
(getting) in exchange: If I take the car in, it’ll be $45 for a tuneup.
for preposition
(REPRESENTING)
representing (an organization or country): Michael works for a Washington-based foundation. She carried the flag for the US at the opening ceremonies.
for preposition
(TOWARD)
toward; in the direction of: Just follow signs for the airport once you’re on the highway.
for preposition
(MEANING)
meaning; representing: What’s another word for "happy"?
for preposition
(TO GET)
in order to get or have: I had to wait half an hour for the bus. Call the phone number below for more information.
for preposition
(DUTY)
the duty or responsibility of: It’s not for her to say whether I should cut my hair.
Idioms
for a price
for a song
for crying out loud
for dear life
for effect
for good
for goodness’ sake
for keeps
for old times’ sake
for one thing
More idioms
for real
for short
for starters
for sure
for the asking
for the better
for the heck of it
for the time being
for the worse
for what it’s worth
not (do something) for anything (in the world)
forconjunction us
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/fɔr, fər/
for conjunction
(BECAUSE)
because; as: She told the truth, for she had nothing to lose.
(Definition of for from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
What is the pronunciation of for?
A1,A2,A2,A1,A2,C1,C1,B2,B1,C2,A2,B1,A2,A2,A2
Translations of for
in Chinese (Traditional)
為…而準備, (表示給予的物件)給, 目的…
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in Chinese (Simplified)
为…而准备, (表示给予的对象)给, 目的…
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in Spanish
para, por, desde hace…
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in Portuguese
para, por, por causa de…
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in more languages
in Marathi
in Japanese
in Turkish
in French
in Catalan
in Dutch
in Tamil
in Hindi
in Gujarati
in Danish
in Swedish
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in German
in Norwegian
in Urdu
in Ukrainian
in Russian
in Telugu
in Arabic
in Bengali
in Czech
in Indonesian
in Thai
in Vietnamese
in Polish
in Korean
in Italian
च्या साठी, प्रीत्यर्थ, कोणासाठी तरी देण्याच्या उद्देशाने…
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~のために(の), ~用に, (時間、距離)の間…
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(verilen/kullanılan) için, (amaç) belli bir amaç için, yüzünden…
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pour, pendant, en raison de…
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per a, des de fa, durant…
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voor, naar, lang…
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கொடுக்க வேண்டும் என்று என்னப்படுகிறது, நோக்கம் கொண்ட, ஏனெனில் அல்லது ஏதோ ஒன்றின் விளைவாக…
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के लिए, (किसी प्रयोजन) के लिए, किसी वजह से या परिणाम से…
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કોઈના માટે, _ને માટે, _ને કારણે…
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til, i retning af, i…
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till, mot, i…
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untuk, menuju, selama…
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für, nach, dafür…
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til, for, om…
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کو, کے لئے, تک…
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для, до, в напрямі…
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для, за, из-за…
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ఒక విషయాన్ని ఒకే రకమైన ఇతరులతో పోల్చడానికి ఉపయోగిస్తారు, ఎవరి బాధ్యత ఏదో అని చెప్పడానికి ఉపయోగిస్తారు, కొరకు/మద్దతుగా లేదా అంగీకారంతో…
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لأَجْل, لِمُدّة, لِمَسافة…
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জন্য, দেওয়ার উদ্দেশ্যে, উদ্দেশ্য আছে এমন…
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pro, do, po…
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kepada, menuju, selama…
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ให้แก่, ให้กับ, ไปยัง…
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cho, về phía, chỉ khoảng thời gian…
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dla, do, za…
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-위한, (시간이나 거리의)-동안, (목적)-을 위해…
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per, da, per via di…
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footy
fop
foppish
foppishly
for
for (good) luck idiom
for a change
for a laugh idiom
for a price idiom
More meanings of for
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if
save
done for
make for something
spoken for
tit for tat
but for someone/something
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response
UK
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/rɪˈspɒns/
US
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/rɪˈspɑːns/
an answer or reaction
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Contents
English
Preposition
for (INTENDED FOR)
for (PURPOSE)
for (BECAUSE OF)
if it wasn't/weren't for
for (TIME/DISTANCE)
for (OCCASION)
for (COMPARING)
for (RESPONSIBILITY)
for (SUPPORT)
be all for something
for (HELP)
for (IN RELATION TO)
for all
for (PAYMENT)
for (REPRESENTING)
for (TOWARDS)
for (MEANING)
for (TO GET)
for (DUTY)
for (IN TROUBLE)
for it
Conjunction
for (BECAUSE)
American
Preposition
for (TO BE GIVEN)
for (PURPOSE)
for (BECAUSE OF)
for (INSTEAD OF)
for (TIME/DISTANCE)
for (OCCASION)
for (CONSIDERING)
for (SUPPORT)
for (IN RELATION TO)
for (PAYMENT)
for (REPRESENTING)
for (TOWARD)
for (MEANING)
for (TO GET)
for (DUTY)
Conjunction
for (BECAUSE)
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Grammar
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For Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
For Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
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Est. 1828
Dictionary
Definition
preposition
conjunction
abbreviation (1)
abbreviation (2)
prefix
preposition
5
preposition
conjunction
abbreviation (1)
abbreviation (2)
prefix
Synonyms
Example Sentences
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for
1 of 5
preposition
fər,
(ˈ)fȯr
Southern also (ˈ)fär
Synonyms of for
1
a
—used as a function word to indicate purposea grant for studying medicine
b
—used as a function word to indicate an intended goalleft for homeacted for the best
c
—used as a function word to indicate the object or recipient of a perception, desire, or activitynow for a good restrun for your lifean eye for a bargain
2
a
: as being or constituting
taken for a fool eggs for breakfast
b
—used as a function word to indicate an actual or implied enumeration or selectionfor one thing, the price is too high
3
: because of
can't sleep for the heat
4
—used as a function word to indicate suitability or fitnessit is not for you to chooseready for action
5
a
: in place of
go to the store for me
b(1)
: on behalf of : representing
speaks for the court
(2)
: in favor of
all for the plan
6
: in spite of
—usually used with allfor all his large size, he moves gracefully
7
: with respect to : concerning
a stickler for detail heavy for its size
8
a
—used as a function word to indicate equivalence in exchange$10 for a hat , equality in number or quantitypoint for point , or correspondence or correlationfor every one that works, you'll find five that don't
b
—used as a function word to indicate number of attempts0 for 4
9
—used as a function word to indicate duration of time or extent of spacegone for two days
10
: in honor of : after
named for her grandmother
for
2 of 5
conjunction
: for the reason that : on this ground : because
for
3 of 5
abbreviation (1)
1
foreign
2
forestry
FOR
4 of 5
abbreviation (2)
free on rail
for-
5 of 5
prefix
1
: so as to involve prohibition, exclusion, omission, failure, neglect, or refusal
forbid
2
: destructively or detrimentally
fordo
3
: completely : excessively : to exhaustion : to pieces
forspent
Synonyms
Conjunction
'cause
as
as long as
because
being (as or as how or that) [chiefly dialect]
considering
inasmuch as
now
seeing
since
whereas
See all Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus
Examples of for in a Sentence
Conjunction
the bill should be listed as paid, for I mailed it in on time
Recent Examples on the WebPreposition
That said, a lot of folks may be shocked by how much Larsa Pippen gives her teenager for allowance.
—Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 8 Mar. 2024
The elephant in the room for Republic FC for the last few years has been the stadium situation and the team’s wanting to build a state-of-the-art venue in the Railyards just north of downtown Sacramento.
—Chris Biderman, Sacramento Bee, 8 Mar. 2024
The hope, Fink said, is that the investment will serve the waste system for years to come, even beyond PFAS.
—Chloe Johnson, Journal Sentinel, 8 Mar. 2024
The unanimous decision, authored by Justice Caleb Stegall, found that a warrantless traffic stop for public safety reasons cannot be justified by suspicion of criminal activity.
—Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 8 Mar. 2024
The bill's passage marks a win for House Republicans, who included the bill on their list of priorities this legislative session.
—Brittany Carloni, The Indianapolis Star, 8 Mar. 2024
The siblings got to spend the day at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for the Big Game matchup, which ended up being their father’s third Super Bowl win.
—Angel Saunders, Peoplemag, 8 Mar. 2024
On Saturday, fellow co-star, Pedro Pascal, took home the award for lead drama actor at the SAG Awards.
—Bryan Alexander, USA TODAY, 26 Feb. 2024
Support networks and counseling can also provide a powerful means for emotional support for those suffering from chronic pain.
—Omer Awan, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024
See More
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'for.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Preposition and Conjunction
Middle English, from Old English; akin to Latin per through, prae before, pro before, for, ahead, Greek pro, Sanskrit pra before, in front, Old English faran to go — more at fare
Prefix
Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German far- for-, Old English for
First Known Use
Preposition
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a Conjunction
12th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of for was
before the 12th century
See more words from the same century
Articles Related to for
Prepositions, Ending a Sentence With
Yes, you can end a sentence with a preposition
Dictionary Entries Near for
FOQ
for
for-
See More Nearby Entries
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Merriam-Webster
“For.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/for. Accessed 12 Mar. 2024.
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Kids Definition
for
1 of 2
preposition
fər
(ˈ)fȯ(ə)r
1
—used to indicate a purposemoney for lunch , an intended goalleft for work , or an object of one's desirenow for a good rest
2
: as being
do you take me for a fool eggs for breakfast
3
: because of
cried for joy
4
a
: in support of
fighting for their country
b
—used to indicate suitability or fitnessit's not for me to saymedicine for an illness
c
: so as to bring about a certain state
shouted the news for all to hear
5
a
: in place of
go to the store for me
b
: as the equal or equivalent of in an exchange or loan
paid $10 for a hat
6
: in spite of
unconvinced for all the clever arguments
7
: with respect to : concerning
had an eye for news
8
—used to indicate equality or proportionpoint for pointtall for your age
9
—used to indicate length of time or extent of spacewaited for several hours
10
: after entry 2 sense 3a
named for my grandmother
for
2 of 2
conjunction
: for the reason that : on this ground : because
they were certainly there, for I saw them
Legal Definition
for
preposition
1
: because of
a statute void for vagueness
2
: on behalf of : as the representative of
attorney general's office for petitioner
More from Merriam-Webster on for
Nglish: Translation of for for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of for for Arabic Speakers
Last Updated:
11 Mar 2024
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for preposition - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage notes | Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary at OxfordLearnersDictionaries.com
for preposition - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage notes | Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary at OxfordLearnersDictionaries.com
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Definition of for preposition from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
for preposition /fə(r)/, strong form /fɔː(r)/ /fər/, strong form /fɔːr/For the special uses of for in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example fall for somebody is in the phrasal verb section at fall.Idioms
jump to other results
used to show who is intended to have or use something or where something is intended to be putThere's a letter for you.It's a book for children.We got a new table for the dining room.This is the place for me (= I like it very much).
Definitions on the go
Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.
in order to help somebody/somethingWhat can I do for you (= how can I help you)?Can you translate this letter for me?I took her classes for her while she was sick.soldiers fighting for their country
used to show purpose or functiona machine for slicing breadLet's go for a walk.Are you learning English for pleasure or for your work?What did you do that for (= Why did you do that)? used to show a reason or causeThe town is famous for its cathedral.She gave me a watch for my birthday.He got an award for bravery.I couldn't speak for laughing.He didn’t answer for fear of hurting her. in order to obtain somethingHe came to me for advice.For more information, call this number.There were over fifty applicants for the job. used to show a length of timeI'm going away for a few days.That's all the news there is for now. used to show a distanceThe road went on for miles and miles.
used to show where somebody/something is goingIs this the bus for Chicago?She knew she was destined for a great future. used to show that something is arranged or intended to happen at a particular timean appointment for May 12We're invited for 7.30. used to show the occasion when something happensI'm warning you for the last time—stop talking! in exchange for somethingCopies are available for two dollars each.I'll swap these two bottles for that one. employed byShe's working for an insurance company.
about; in connection with somebody/somethingThey are anxious for her safety.Fortunately for us, the weather changed. as a representative ofI am speaking for everyone in this department. meaningShaking your head for ‘No’ is not universal. in support of somebody/somethingAre you for or against the proposal?They voted for independence in a referendum.There's a strong case for postponing the exam.I'm all for (= strongly support) people having fun.‘What does Naomi think about the move?’ ‘She’s all for it.’ compare against (2) considering what can be expected from somebody/somethingThe weather was warm for the time of year.She's tall for her age.He’s not bad for a beginner.That's too much responsibility for a child.
used to say how difficult, necessary, pleasant, etc. something is that somebody might do or has doneIt's useless for us to continue.There's no need for you to go.For her to have survived such an ordeal was remarkable.The box is too heavy for me to lift.Is it clear enough for you to read? used to show who can or should do somethingIt's not for me to say why he left.How to spend the money is for you to decide. better, happier, etc. for something better, happier, etc. following somethingYou'll feel better for a good night's sleep.This room would look more cheerful for a spot of paint. Word OriginOld English, probably a reduction of a Germanic preposition meaning ‘before’ (in place or time); related to German für, also to fore.Idioms be in for it (British English also be for it)(informal) to be going to get into trouble or be punishedWe'd better hurry or we'll be in for it. for all despiteFor all its clarity of style, the book is not easy reading.
used to say that something is not important or of no interest or value to you/somebodyFor all I know she's still living in Boston.You can do what you like, for all I care.For all the good it's done we might as well not have bothered. there’s/that’s… for you (often ironic) used to say that something is a typical example of its kindShe might at least have called to explain. There's gratitude for you. See for in the Oxford Advanced American DictionarySee for in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic EnglishCheck pronunciation:
for
Other results
All matches
for conjunction
do for
go for
act for
ask for
call for
care for
come for
fall for
fear for
feel for
find for
fish for
gird for
hit for
live for
look for
lust for
make for
mark for
See more
Phrasal verbs
act for somebody
go for somebody
go for something
angle for something
answer for somebody
break for something
call for somebody
call for something
care for somebody
come for somebody
fall for somebody
fall for something
feel for somebody
fend for yourself
find for somebody
fish for something
look for something
make for something
press for something
root for somebody
See more
Idioms
for all
but for
for good
for luck
for one
for real
for rent
for show
for sure
what for?
for keeps
ask for it
for certain
to die for
for instance
for nothing
for openers
run for it
for a song
for starters
See more
Nearby words
fop noun
foppish adjective
for preposition
for conjunction
forage verb
boost
verb
From the Topic
Change, cause and effect
B2
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For
Grammar > Prepositions and particles > For from English Grammar Today
For is usually a preposition and sometimes a conjunction.For: purposeWe use for to talk about a purpose or a reason for something:I’m going for some breakfast. I’m really hungry.She leaves on Friday for a 15-day cruise around the Mediterranean.I wear these old trousers for painting.In questions we often use what … for instead of why to ask about the reason or purpose of something especially in informal situations:What are you here for?What are they doing it for?See also: For + -ing For someoneWe often use for to introduce the person or people receiving something:She bought a teapot for her sister.Mike Cranham and his staff at the hotel cook for 800 people a day, on average.For: durationWe use for with a period of time to refer to duration (how long something lasts):There’s a lovely open-air pool near us. We usually go there for a couple of hours in the evenings when it’s warm enough.Warning: Don’t confuse for and in when referring to time:We’re going to Cape Town for two months. (We will spend two months in Cape Town.)We’re going to Cape Town in two months. (We’re leaving to go to Cape Town two months from now.)After a negative we can use for and in with the same meaning. In is particularly common in American English:I haven’t seen him in five years. (or for five years.)See also: For or since? For: exchangeWe use for to refer to an exchange:[sign in a food shop]2 for £2 or £1.36 each. (Two for two pounds or one pound thirty-six each.)I got 124 euros for 100 pounds at today’s exchange rate.For meaning becauseWe sometimes use for as a conjunction meaning ‘because’. We use it in very formal, and often literary, contexts:Chasing the white stag through the forests, never catching it, of course, for it is a creature of legend.For in multi-word verbsWe often combine for with a verb to form a multi-word verb:She’s been caring for her mother for years.It’s not a good time to look for it now. We have to go.You will find other multi-word verbs with for in a good learner’s dictionary.See also: Verbs: multi-word verbs
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Contents
Adjectives and adverbs Adjectives Adjectives Adjectives: forms Adjectives: order Adjective phrases Adjective phrases: functions Adjective phrases: position Adjectives and adjective phrases: typical errors Comparative and superlative adjectives Comparison: adjectives (bigger, biggest, more interesting) Comparison: clauses (bigger than we had imagined) Comparison: comparisons of equality (as tall as his father) As … as Adverbs Adverbs Adverb phrases Adverbs and adverb phrases: position Adverbs and adverb phrases: typical errors Adverbs: forms Adverbs: functions Adverbs: types Comparison: adverbs (worse, more easily) Degree adverbs Fairly Intensifiers (very, at all) Largely Much, a lot, lots, a good deal: adverbs Pretty Quite Rather Really Scarcely Very Time adverbs About Ago Already Always Early Ever Hardly ever, rarely, scarcely, seldom Next No longer, not any longer No more, not any more Now Often Once Soon Still Then Usually Eventually Adverbs as discourse markers (anyway, finally) Adverbs as short responses (definitely, certainly) Using adjectives and adverbs Afraid Alike Hard Long Only Same, similar, identical Likely and unlikely As well (as) Even Hardly Hopefully Surely Too Ultimately Easily confused words Above or over? Across, over or through? Advice or advise? Affect or effect? All or every? All or whole? Allow, permit or let? Almost or nearly? Alone, lonely, or lonesome? Along or alongside? Already, still or yet? Also, as well or too? Alternate(ly), alternative(ly) Although or though? Altogether or all together? Amount of, number of or quantity of? Any more or anymore? Anyone, anybody or anything? Apart from or except for? Arise or rise? Around or round? Arouse or rouse? As or like? As, because or since? As, when or while? Been or gone? Begin or start? Beside or besides? Between or among? Born or borne? Bring, take and fetch Can, could or may? Classic or classical? Come or go? Consider or regard? Consist, comprise or compose? Content or contents? Different from, different to or different than? Do or make? Down, downwards or downward? During or for? Each or every? East or eastern; north or northern? Economic or economical? Efficient or effective? Elder, eldest or older, oldest? End or finish? Especially or specially? Except or except for? Expect, hope or wait? Experience or experiment? Fall or fall down? Far or a long way? Farther, farthest or further, furthest? Fast, quick or quickly? Fell or felt? Female or feminine; male or masculine? Finally, at last, lastly or in the end? First, firstly or at first? Fit or suit? Following or the following? For or since? Forget or leave? Full or filled? Fun or funny? Get or go? Grateful or thankful? Hear or listen (to)? High or tall? Historic or historical? House or home? How is …? or What is … like? If or when? If or whether? Ill or sick? Imply or infer? In the way or on the way? It’s or its? Late or lately? Lay or lie? Lend or borrow? Less or fewer? Look at, see or watch? Low or short? Man, mankind or people? Maybe or may be? Maybe or perhaps? Nearest or next? Never or not … ever? Nice or sympathetic? No doubt or without doubt? No or not? Nowadays, these days or today? Open or opened? Opportunity or possibility? Opposite or in front of? Other, others, the other or another? Out or out of? Permit or permission? Person, persons or people? Pick or pick up? Play or game? Politics, political, politician or policy? Price or prize? Principal or principle? Quiet or quite? Raise or rise? Remember or remind? Right or rightly? Rob or steal? Say or tell? So that or in order that? Sometimes or sometime? Sound or noise? Speak or talk? Such or so? There, their or they’re? Towards or toward? Wait or wait for? Wake, wake up or awaken? Worth or worthwhile? Nouns, pronouns and determiners Determiners A/an and the Determiners (the, my, some, this) Determiners and types of noun Determiners: position and order Determiners: typical errors Determiners used as pronouns Every Possession (John’s car, a friend of mine) Such This, that, these, those Whole Nouns Nouns Nouns: form Nouns and prepositions Nouns: compound nouns Nouns: countable and uncountable Nouns: forming nouns from other words Nouns: singular and plural Uncountable nouns Accommodation Equipment Furniture Information Luck and lucky News Progress Weather Noun phrases Noun phrases: dependent words Noun phrases: order Noun phrases: uses Noun phrases: noun phrases and verbs Noun phrases: two noun phrases together Pronouns Pronouns Each other, one another Everyone, everybody, everything, everywhere It Gender No one, nobody, nothing, nowhere One One and one’s Pronouns: personal (I, me, you, him, it, they, etc.) Pronouns: possessive (my, mine, your, yours, etc.) Pronouns: reflexive (myself, themselves, etc.) Pronouns: indefinite (-body, -one, -thing, -where) Pronouns: one, you, we, they Relative pronouns Questions: interrogative pronouns (what, who) Someone, somebody, something, somewhere That Quantifiers A bit All Any Both Either Enough Least, the least, at least Less Little, a little, few, a few Lots, a lot, plenty Many More Most, the most, mostly Much, many, a lot of, lots of: quantifiers No, none and none of Plenty Some Some and any Question words How What When Where Which Who, whom Whose Why Using nouns Piece words and group words Comparison: nouns (more money, the most points) Nouns and gender Reported speech: reporting nouns Age Half Holiday and holidays Mind Opinion Promise Reason Sort, type and kind Thing and stuff View Way Work (noun) Prepositions and particles Prepositions Prepositional phrases Above After, afterwards Against Among and amongst As At At, in and to (movement) At, on and in (place) At, on and in (time) Below Beneath Beyond By During For For + -ing From In front of In spite of and despite In, into Near and near to Of On, onto Over To Under Until With Within Without Using English Collocation Functions Commands and instructions Commentaries Invitations Offers Requests Greetings and farewells: hello, goodbye, Happy New Year Suggestions Telephoning Warnings Numbers Dates Measurements Number Time People and places Geographical places Names and titles: addressing people Nationalities, languages, countries and regions Place names Place and movement Abroad Away and away from Back Inside Nearby Outside Up Politeness Reported speech Reported speech Reported speech: direct speech Reported speech: indirect speech Sexist language Spoken English Pronunciation Intonation Politeness Interjections (ouch, hooray) Tags Chunks Ellipsis Headers and tails Hyperbole Vague expressions Downtoners Hedges (just) Substitution All right and alright Please and thank you Here and there Just Kind of and sort of Oh So and not with expect, hope, think, etc. So Yes Anyway Discourse markers (so, right, okay) In fact Okay, OK Well You know You see Types of English British and American English Dialect Double negatives and usage Formal and informal language Newspaper headlines Register Slang Standard and non-standard language Swearing and taboo expressions Useful phrases According to Actual and actually Approximations (around four o’clock) At all Else Hear that, see that However, whatever, whichever, whenever, wherever, whoever It’s time May as well and might as well More or less Of course Point of view Writing Apostrophe (’) Apposition Contractions Contrasts Detached impersonal style Internet discourse and text messages It, this and that in paragraphs Paragraphs Punctuation Speech into writing Spelling Such as Verbs Tenses and time Past Past simple (I worked) Past continuous (I was working) Past continuous or past simple? Past simple or present perfect? Used to Past perfect simple (I had worked) Past perfect continuous (I had been working) Past perfect simple or past perfect continuous? Past perfect simple or past simple? Past verb forms referring to the present Past: typical errors Present Present continuous (I am working) Present perfect continuous (I have been working) Present perfect simple (I have worked) Present perfect simple or present perfect continuous? Present perfect: typical errors Present simple (I work) Present simple or present continuous? Present: typical errors Present verb forms referring to the past Future Future: will and shall Future: be going to (I am going to work) Future: other expressions to talk about the future Future continuous (I will be working) Future in the past Future perfect continuous (I will have been working here ten years) Future perfect simple (I will have worked eight hours) Future: present continuous to talk about the future (I’m working tomorrow) Future: present simple to talk about the future (I work tomorrow) Future: typical errors Going to Verb forms Finite and non-finite verbs Imperative clauses (Be quiet!) Infinitives with and without to Infinitive: active or passive? Perfect infinitive with to (to have worked) Verbs: basic forms Verbs: formation Verb patterns Hate, like, love and prefer Hear, see, etc. + object + infinitive or -ing Help somebody (to) do Look forward to Stop + -ing form or to-infinitive Verb patterns: verb + infinitive or verb + -ing? Verb patterns: verb + that-clause Verb patterns: with and without objects Would like Would rather, would sooner Phrasal verbs and multi-word verbs Passive voice Get passive Have something done Passive: forms Passives with and without an agent Passive: uses Passive: other forms Passive: typical errors Modal verbs and modality Can Could Could, may and might Dare Had better May Might Modality: forms Modality: meanings and uses Modality: tense Modality: other verbs Modality: other modal words and expressions Must Need Ought to Shall Should Will Would Conditionals and wishes Conditionals Conditionals: if Conditionals: other expressions (unless, should, as long as) Conditionals: typical errors If only In case (of) Suppose, supposing and what if Wish Using verbs Verbs: types Verb phrases Verbs and verb phrases: typical errors Appear Ask and ask for Be Be expressions (be able to, be due to) Come Do Enable Enjoy Explain Get Go Happen Have Have got and have Hope Know Let, let’s Like Look Made from, made of, made out of, made with Make Marry and divorce Matter Mean Miss Prefer Put See Seem Suggest Take Think Want Table of irregular verbs Words, sentences and clauses Word classes and phrase classes Word formation Word formation Prefixes Suffixes Compounds Abbreviations, initials and acronyms -ish and -y Diminutives (-let, -y and mini-) Hyphens Word order and focus Word order and focus Word order: structures Cleft sentences (It was in June we got married.) Fronting Inversion No sooner Not only … but also Conjunctions and linking words And As if and as though As long as and so long as Because, because of and cos, cos of Before But Conjunctions Conjunctions: adding Conjunctions: causes, reasons, results and purpose Conjunctions: contrasting Conjunctions: time Either … or… If In order to Or Since Unless Whereas Whether While and whilst Yet Clauses and sentences Adjuncts Clauses Clauses: finite and non-finite Clause types Complements Dummy subjects Exclamations Heads Objects Sentences Subjects Subject complements Subject–verb agreement Relative clauses Relative clauses Relative clauses referring to a whole sentence Relative clauses: defining and non-defining Relative clauses: typical errors Negation Negation Neither, neither … nor and not … either Not Neither, neither … nor and not … either Not Forming negative statements, questions and imperatives Negation: two negatives Negative clauses with any, anybody, anyone, anything, anywhere Negation in non-finite clauses Negative prefixes and suffixes Negative adverbs: hardly, seldom, etc. Negation: emphasising Negation of think, believe, suppose, hope Questions Questions: alternative questions (Is it black or grey?) Questions: statement questions (you’re over 18?) Questions: two-step questions Questions: typical errors Questions: wh-questions Questions: yes-no questions (Are you feeling cold?) Questions: follow-up questions Questions: echo and checking questions Questions: short forms
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For Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary
For Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary
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The Britannica Dictionary
for
272 ENTRIES FOUND:
for (preposition)
for (conjunction)
for–profit (adjective)
for instance (noun)
free–for–all (noun)
good–for–nothing (adjective)
not–for–profit (adjective)
tit for tat (noun)
uncalled–for (adjective)
uncared for (adjective)
unlooked–for (adjective)
what for (noun)
a (noun)
account (verb)
afraid (adjective)
all (adjective)
all (pronoun)
allow (verb)
answer (verb)
anything (pronoun)
as (conjunction)
ask (verb)
badly (adverb)
bang (noun)
bargain (verb)
bat (noun)
bear (noun)
beeline (noun)
best (noun)
better (noun)
big (adjective)
bird (noun)
bleed (verb)
blood (noun)
bob (verb)
book (noun)
boot (noun)
britches (noun)
broke (adjective)
buck (noun)
buck (verb)
burton (noun)
but (preposition)
call (verb)
care (verb)
carry (verb)
cast (verb)
cater (verb)
certain (adjective)
change (noun)
chop (noun)
come (verb)
comfort (noun)
count (noun)
course (noun)
cry (verb)
cudgel (noun)
curtain (noun)
day (noun)
dear (adjective)
declare (verb)
die (verb)
dig (verb)
do (verb)
done (adjective)
door (noun)
double (adverb)
down (adjective)
drum (noun)
due (adjective)
duration (noun)
e (noun)
each other (pronoun)
else (adjective)
error (noun)
ever (adverb)
every (adjective)
example (noun)
except (preposition)
eye (noun)
fall (verb)
fall (noun)
fear (verb)
feel (verb)
feeling (noun)
fend (verb)
fight (verb)
fish (verb)
fit (adjective)
food (noun)
forest (noun)
forever (adverb)
free (adjective)
gander (noun)
go (verb)
god (noun)
good (adjective)
good (noun)
goodness (noun)
goose (noun)
grab (verb)
grab (noun)
grant (verb)
grasp (verb)
great (adjective)
grist (noun)
gun (verb)
have (verb)
head (noun)
heart (noun)
hell (noun)
high jump (noun)
himself (pronoun)
hire (noun)
hit (verb)
hook (noun)
how (adverb)
hurt (verb)
if (conjunction)
in (adverb)
instance (noun)
intent (noun)
into (preposition)
it (pronoun)
jam (noun)
jugular (noun)
keep (noun)
king (noun)
knife (noun)
knock (verb)
know (verb)
laugh (noun)
leave (verb)
let (verb)
life (noun)
listen (verb)
live (verb)
loaded (adjective)
long (adjective)
long (noun)
look (verb)
lookout (noun)
loop (noun)
loss (noun)
lost (adjective)
love (noun)
lunch (noun)
made (adjective)
make (verb)
man (noun)
matter (noun)
mean (verb)
meantime (noun)
measure (noun)
mill (noun)
minute (noun)
miss (verb)
moment (noun)
money (noun)
moon (noun)
most (adjective)
name (noun)
near (adjective)
news (noun)
nonce (noun)
nothing (pronoun)
nothing (noun)
old (adjective)
once (adverb)
one (noun)
only (adverb)
open (verb)
opener (noun)
order (noun)
par (noun)
part (noun)
pass (verb)
pause (noun)
pave (verb)
pay (verb)
peace (noun)
penny (noun)
pinched (adjective)
pine (verb)
place (noun)
play (verb)
play (noun)
plump (verb)
ply (verb)
pound (noun)
practical (adjective)
present (adjective)
press (verb)
provide (verb)
pull (verb)
purpose (noun)
rainy (adjective)
reach (verb)
real (adjective)
record (noun)
rent (noun)
ride (verb)
ride (noun)
road (noun)
root (verb)
rope (noun)
run (verb)
run (noun)
sake (noun)
sale (noun)
sauce (noun)
save (preposition)
say (verb)
scream (verb)
see (verb)
send (verb)
settle (verb)
shift (verb)
shoot (verb)
short (noun)
show (noun)
sicken (verb)
sight (noun)
sign (verb)
sin (noun)
six (noun)
so (adverb)
song (noun)
sore (adjective)
speak (verb)
spoil (verb)
spring (verb)
stage (noun)
stake (noun)
stand (verb)
star (noun)
start (noun)
starter (noun)
sting (verb)
sue (verb)
sure (adjective)
tea (noun)
thank (verb)
that (pronoun)
there (adverb)
think (verb)
thought (noun)
time (noun)
tooth (noun)
touch (verb)
tree (noun)
trouble (noun)
try (verb)
unaccounted (adjective)
unasked (adjective)
up (adjective)
use (noun)
vouch (verb)
wait (verb)
want (verb)
want (noun)
watch (verb)
wear (noun)
wish (verb)
wood (noun)
word (noun)
work (noun)
world (noun)
worse (adjective)
worse (noun)
worth (preposition)
you (pronoun)
1
for
/ˈfoɚ/
/fɚ/
preposition
1
for
/ˈfoɚ/
/fɚ/
preposition
Britannica Dictionary definition of FOR
1
a
— used to indicate the place someone or something is going to or toward
He just left for the office.
We're heading for home.
When's the next train for [=to] London?
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b
— used to indicate the person or thing that something is sent or given to
Are there any letters for me?
This present is for you.
She baked a cake for me.
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2
a
— used to indicate the thing that something is meant to be used with
There's a separate slot for out-of-town mail.
Are these the tires for this car?
The scenery for the play is beautiful.
This food is for the party.
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b
— used to indicate the person or type of person who should use or have something
The store sells suits for tall men.
This is just right for me.
That job is not for me. [=that job would not suit me]
Who's the best/right person for the job?
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3
a
— used to indicate the use of something
an instrument for measuring speed
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b
— used to indicate why something is done
She's dressing for dinner.
Squirrels were storing nuts for the winter.
He's making plans for retirement.
studying for examinations
They shouted the news for all to hear. [=so that all could hear it]
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4
— used to indicate the person that a statement refers to
Seeing her again must be difficult for him.
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— often followed by to + verb
It's time for us to get busy.
For him to confess would be painful.
That's too heavy for you to carry.
(chiefly US) I'd hate for you to miss the show. [=I'd hate it if you missed the show]
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5
a
:
in order to help or cause (something)
We are working for the good of humanity.
This is for your own good. [=to help you]
They believe that they are acting for the best. [=they are doing what is best]
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b
:
in order to get (something)
For more information, call our main office.
Everybody ran for safety/shelter when the shooting started.
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6
:
in favor of (someone or something)
Which candidate are you for?
You're either for [=with] me or you're against me.
the case for and the case against disarmament
I am all for [=completely in favor of] freedom of speech.
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7
:
because of (something)
He shouted for joy.
He wept for sorrow.
He was decorated for bravery.
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8
— used to indicate the person or thing toward which feelings, thoughts, etc., are directed
He was hungry for praise.
They are longing for home.
I can't help feeling sorry for him.
She has a taste for spicy food. [=she enjoys spicy food]
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9
a
— used to indicate an amount of time or space
You can see for miles from the top of the hill.
She won't be here for long.
She won't get here for hours (yet).
We're staying there for the summer.
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b
— used to indicate the time when something happens or will happen
The wedding is planned for next April.
We've invited her for 8 p.m.
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c
— used to indicate the time that a statement refers to
That's all for now/today.
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10
a
:
in place of (someone or something else)
:
instead of (someone or something else)
Would you go to the store for me?
Johnson is now batting for Smith.
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b
:
as a representative of (someone)
His lawyer will act for him in this affair.
I'm sure I speak for everyone here when I say “Well Done!”
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c
:
in order to help or serve (someone or something)
What else can I do for you?
Let me carry that for you.
They fought and died for their country.
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11
:
in order to cure or treat (an illness, injury, disease, etc.)
You should take something for that cough.
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12
— used to indicate the amount or value of something
a check for $100
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13
— used to indicate the meaning of a word
The French word for “good” is “bon.”
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14
— used to indicate the food that is eaten at a meal
I ordered eggs for breakfast.
What did you have for dinner?
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15
:
as an employee, member, player, etc., of (something)
She works for the government.
He plays for Denver.
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16
chiefly US
:
with the name of (someone)
He was named for [=after] his grandfather. [=he was given the same name as his grandfather]
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17
— used to indicate the parts of a list or series
For one thing, we have no money; for another, we have no time.
People don't buy it because, for one thing, the price is too high.
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18
— used to refer to something that is surprising or unexpected when compared to something else
He's tall for his age. [=he is taller than you would expect someone his age to be]
It's been very cool for May.
That was a good score for him. = For him, that was a good score.
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19
— used to indicate the relationship between numbers or amounts that are being compared
For every good writer there are a dozen bad ones.
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20
— used in various emphatic phrases
I for one will vote for him. [=I will definitely vote for him]
For the last time, will you stop that noise!
I wish you'd be sensible for once.
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for all
1
:
in spite of (something)
You don't convince me for all your clever arguments.
For all his education, he's pretty dumb when it comes to home repair.
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2
— used in phrases like for all someone knows and for all someone cares to say that someone does not know, care, etc., about something
For all I know, she's still there. [=she may still be there, but I don't know]
For all he cares, we might as well be dead! [=he doesn't care if we're dead or not]
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for ever (and ever)
—
see ever
for real
—
see 1real
if not for
—
see 1if
in for
informal
:
certain to experience (something)
She's in for a big surprise.
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in for it
informal
or British
for it
:
certain to be punished
If his parents find out what he's done, he'll be in for it.
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in order for
—
see 1order
not for (someone) to do something
:
not the right or duty of (someone) to do something
It is not for you to say that she can't go. [=it is not appropriate for you to say she can't go; you cannot decide that she cannot go]
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once and for all
—
see 1once
that's/there's…for you
informal
— used to say that something is very good, very disappointing, or very common
They brought me the package on Christmas Day! Now that's real service for you! [=bringing the package on Christmas Day was excellent service]
They didn't even send me a Christmas card! There's gratitude for you! [=they were very ungrateful not to send me a Christmas card]
He stays up late, playing video games and listening to music. That's a teenager for you. [=that's how a typical teenager behaves]
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2
for
/ˈfoɚ/
/fɚ/
conjunction
2
for
/ˈfoɚ/
/fɚ/
conjunction
Britannica Dictionary definition of FOR
formal + literary
:
because
— used to introduce a statement that explains why a preceding statement is true
They were certainly there, for I saw them.
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FOR Definition & Usage Examples | Dictionary.com
FOR Definition & Usage Examples | Dictionary.com
GamesDaily CrosswordWord PuzzleWord FinderAll gamesFeaturedWord of the DaySynonym of the DayWord of the YearNew wordsLanguage storiesAll featuredPop cultureSlangEmojiMemesAcronymsGender and sexualityAll pop cultureWriting tipsGrammar Coach™Writing hubGrammar essentialsCommonly confusedAll writing tipsGamesFeaturedPop cultureWriting tipsfor[ fawr; unstressed fer ]show ipaSee synonyms for for on Thesaurus.comprepositionwith the object or purpose of: to run for exercise.intended to belong to, or be used in connection with: equipment for the army;a closet for dishes.suiting the purposes or needs of: medicine for the aged.in order to obtain, gain, or acquire: a suit for alimony;to work for wages.(used to express a wish, as of something to be experienced or obtained): O, for a cold drink!sensitive or responsive to: an eye for beauty.desirous of: a longing for something;a taste for fancy clothes.in consideration or payment of; in return for: three for a dollar;to be thanked for one's efforts.appropriate or adapted to: a subject for speculation;clothes for winter.with regard or respect to: pressed for time;too warm for April.during the continuance of: for a long time.in favor of; on the side of: to be for honest government.in place of; instead of: a substitute for butter.in the interest of; on behalf of: to act for a client.in exchange for; as an offset to: blow for blow;money for goods.in punishment of: payment for the crime.in honor of: to give a dinner for a person.with the purpose of reaching: to start for London.contributive to: for the advantage of everybody.in order to save: to flee for one's life.in order to become: to train recruits for soldiers.in assignment or attribution to: an appointment for the afternoon;That's for you to decide.such as to allow of or to require: too many for separate mention.such as results in: his reason for going.as affecting the interests or circumstances of: bad for one's health.in proportion or with reference to: He is tall for his age.in the character of; as being: to know a thing for a fact.by reason of; because of: to shout for joy;a city famed for its beauty.in spite of: He's a decent guy for all that.to the extent or amount of: to walk for a mile.(used to introduce a subject in an infinitive phrase): It's time for me to go.(used to indicate the number of successes out of a specified number of attempts): The batter was 2 for 4 in the game.See moreconjunctionseeing that; since.because. Idioms about forfor it, British. in (def. 33). Origin of for1First recorded before 900; Middle English, Old English; cognate with Old Saxon for; akin to fore1, Latin per “through,” Greek pró “before, ahead”Words that may be confused with forfor , fore, fourWords Nearby forfoo yongfoozlefopfopperyfoppishforfor a changeforageforage capforage miteforagerOther definitions for for- (2 of 5)for-a prefix meaning “away,” “off,” “to the uttermost,” “extremely,” “wrongly,” or imparting a negative or privative force, occurring in verbs and nouns formed from verbs of Old or Middle English origin, many of which are now obsolete or archaic: forbid; forbear; forswear; forbearance.Origin of for-2Middle English, Old English; compare German ver-,Greek peri-,Latin per-Other definitions for for. (3 of 5)for.abbreviationforeign.forester.forestry.See moreOther definitions for For. (4 of 5)For.abbreviationForester.Other definitions for F.O.R. (5 of 5)F.O.R.abbreviationfree on rails.Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024How to use for in a sentenceSands was involved in a scandalous-for-the-time romance with the carpenter and there were rumors she was pregnant with his child.New York’s Most Tragic Ghost Loves Minimalist Swedish Fashion | Nina Strochlic | January 8, 2015 | THE DAILY BEASTThere was no mistaking this for the gaudiness and gilt of made-for-TV awards shows.Streetwear pioneer, visionary entrepreneur, and community mentor Daymond John is honored with Hennessy Privilege Award | Hennessy | January 1, 2015 | THE DAILY BEASTGiven the potential for a cyber tit-for-tat to escalate, Obama has even more incentive to find a diplomatic solution.Obama Could Hit China to Punish North Korea | Shane Harris, Tim Mak | December 20, 2014 | THE DAILY BEASTTwenty-five more for-profits are on well on their way to doing the same thing.The 26 Next Hobby Lobbys | Abby Haglage | December 17, 2014 | THE DAILY BEASTWill Christian pharmacists, county clerks, florists, and for-profit wedding chapels really withdraw from society, as you describe?Do LGBTs Owe Christians an Olive Branch? Try The Other Way Around | Jay Michaelson | December 14, 2014 | THE DAILY BEASTThe result of this stock-taking shows that eleven volumes were unaccounted-for, a list of which is appended.Report of the Chief Librarian for the Year 1924-25 | General Assembly Library (New Zealand)At this stock-taking the number unaccounted-for is twenty-two, several of which are quite recent accessions to the Library.Report of the Chief Librarian for the Year 1924-25 | General Assembly Library (New Zealand)Edna's desire to see Mademoiselle Reisz had increased tenfold since these unlooked-for obstacles had arisen to thwart it.The Awakening and Selected Short Stories | Kate ChopinBut no other instance of for-tened is known, nor yet of crece as short for increes (increase).Chaucer's Works, Volume 1 (of 7) -- Romaunt of the Rose; Minor Poems | Geoffrey ChaucerAt length the long looked-for copy arrived, he saw it, composed himself and died, 1543.Gospel Philosophy | J. H. WardSee More ExamplesBritish Dictionary definitions for for (1 of 3)for/ (fɔː, unstressed fə) /prepositionintended to reach; directed or belonging to: there's a phone call for youto the advantage of: I only did it for youin the direction of: heading for the borderover a span of (time or distance): working for six days; the river ran for six milesin favour of; in support of: those for the proposal; vote for mein order to get or achieve: I do it for money; he does it for pleasure; what did you do that for?appropriate to; designed to meet the needs of; meant to be used in: these kennels are for puppiesin exchange for; at a cost of; to the amount of: I got it for hardly any moneysuch as explains or results in: his reason for changing his job was not givenin place of: a substitute for the injured playerbecause of; through: she wept for pure reliefwith regard or consideration to the usual characteristics of: he's short for a man; it's cool for this time of yearconcerning; as regards: desire for moneyas being: we took him for the owner; I know that for a factat a specified time: a date for the next eveningto do or partake of: an appointment for supperin the duty or task of: that's for him to sayto allow of: too big a job for us to handledespite; notwithstanding: she's a good wife, for all her naggingin order to preserve, retain, etc: to fight for survivalas a direct equivalent to: word for word; weight for weightin order to become or enter: to go for a soldier; to train for the priesthoodin recompense for: I paid for it last week; he took the punishment for his crimefor it British informal liable for punishment or blame: you'll be for it if she catches younothing for it no choice; no other courseSee moreconjunction(coordinating) for the following reason; because; seeing that: I couldn't stay, for the area was violentOrigin of for1Old English; related to Old Norse fyr for, Old High German fora before, Latin per through, prō before, Greek pro before, in frontBritish Dictionary definitions for for- (2 of 3)for-prefixindicating rejection or prohibition: forbear; forbidindicating falsity or wrongness: forswearused to give intensive force: forgive; forlornSee moreOrigin of for-2Old English for-; related to German ver-, Latin per-, Greek peri-British Dictionary definitions for f.o.r. (3 of 3)f.o.r.FOR/ commerce /abbreviation forfree on railCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012Other Idioms and Phrases with forforIn addition to the idioms beginning with forfor a changefor allfor all intents and purposesfor all one is worthfor all thatfor all the worldfor a loopfor a songfor a wonderfor better or for worsefor certainfor chicken feedfor crying out loudfor days on endfor dear lifefore and aftfor examplefor fear offor freefor funfor God's sakefor goodfor good measurefor heaven's sakefor keepsfor love or moneyfor onefor one's moneyfor one's painsfor one's partfor one's sakefor one thingfor openersfor Pete's sakefor realfor shamefor shortfor showfor startersfor surefor that matterfor the askingfor the bestfor the birdsfor the hell of itfor the life of onefor the love offor the momentfor the most partfor the presentfor the recordfor the sake offor the time beingfor two centsfor what it's worthalso see: all foras forbut fordo fordone forexcept forgo forgoing forgood forin forout foruncalled forwhat forSee More OriginsThe American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.Browse#aabbccddeeffgghhiijjkkllmmnnooppqqrrssttuuvvwwxxyyzzAboutCareersShopContact usAdvertise with usCookies, terms, & privacyDo not sell my infoFollow usGet the Word of the Day every day!Sign upBy clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.My account© 2024 Dictionary.com, LLC
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FOR Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus
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Est. 1828
Thesaurus
Synonyms of for
preposition
as in pro
conjunction
as in because
as in proas in because
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for
1 of 2
preposition
Definition of for
as in pro
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
pro
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
against
anti
with
contra
agin
contrary to
versus
athwart
for
2 of 2
conjunction
as in because
for the reason that
the bill should be listed as paid, for I mailed it in on time
Synonyms & Similar Words
because
seeing
now
since
considering
as
whereas
being (as or as how or that)
inasmuch as
as long as
'cause
Articles Related to for
Prepositions, Ending a Sentence With
Yes, you can end a sentence with a preposition
Thesaurus Entries Near for
fops
for
forage
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“For.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/for. Accessed 12 Mar. 2024.
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for Also found in: Thesaurus, Medical, Legal, Financial, Acronyms, Idioms, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia.
foron behalf of; in favor of; because; since Not to be confused with:fore – forward; front part; warning by golfer four – a numeralAbused, Confused, & Misused Words by Mary Embree Copyright © 2007, 2013 by Mary EmbreeFORabbr. free on railfor (fôr; fər when unstressed)prep.1. a. Used to indicate the object, aim, or purpose of an action or activity: trained for the ministry; put the house up for sale; plans to run for senator.b. Used to indicate a destination: headed off for town.2. Used to indicate the object of a desire, intention, or perception: had a nose for news; eager for success.3. a. Used to indicate the recipient or beneficiary of an action: prepared lunch for us.b. On behalf of: spoke for all the members.c. In favor of: Were they for or against the proposal?d. In place of: a substitute for eggs.4. a. Used to indicate equivalence or equality: paid ten dollars for a ticket; repeated the conversation word for word.b. Used to indicate correlation or correspondence: took two steps back for every step forward.5. a. Used to indicate amount, extent, or duration: a bill for five dollars; walked for miles; stood in line for an hour.b. Used to indicate a specific time: had an appointment for two o'clock.c. Used to indicate a number of attempts: shot three for four from the foul line.6. a. As being: take for granted; mistook me for the librarian.b. Used to indicate an actual or implied listing or choosing: For one thing, we can't afford it.7. As a result of; because of: jumped for joy.8. Used to indicate appropriateness or suitability: It will be for the judge to decide.9. Notwithstanding; despite: For all the problems, it was a valuable experience.10. a. As regards; concerning: a stickler for neatness.b. Considering the nature or usual character of: was spry for his advanced age.c. In honor of: named for her grandmother.conj. Because; since.adv. Because of this; for this reason.[Middle English, from Old English; see per in Indo-European roots.]Usage Note: For has been used as a conjunction meaning "because, since" for over 1,000 years. It is familiar in many famous quotations, from the New Testament's beatitudes (Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth, Matthew 5:05) to Shakespeare's sonnets (For thy sweet love rememb'red such wealth brings / That then I scorn to change my state with kings). Today this use of for is rare in speech and informal writing, and it often lends a literary tone or note of formality. · Like the word so, for can be viewed as either a subordinating or a coordinating conjunction, and it has been treated variously as such. It has the meaning of a subordinating conjunction, since it clearly subordinates the clause that follows it to the previous clause or sentence. But like a coordinating conjunction, for has a fixed position in the sentence, and its clause cannot be transposed to precede the superordinate clause containing the main idea. It is ungrammatical in present-day English to say For they shall inherit the earth: blessed are the meek. Perhaps because of this ambiguity in function, for is treated variously with regard to punctuation. Sometimes it begins a dependent clause and follows a comma, and sometimes it begins an independent clause (as if it were a conjunctive adverb like moreover) and follows a semicolon or period (when it is capitalized as the first word of a new sentence). All treatments are acceptable in standard usage. The difference is really one of emphasis: starting a new sentence with for tends to call more attention to the thought that it introduces.American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.for (fɔː; unstressed fə) prep1. intended to reach; directed or belonging to: there's a phone call for you. 2. to the advantage of: I only did it for you. 3. in the direction of: heading for the border. 4. over a span of (time or distance): working for six days; the river ran for six miles. 5. in favour of; in support of: those for the proposal; vote for me. 6. in order to get or achieve: I do it for money; he does it for pleasure; what did you do that for?. 7. appropriate to; designed to meet the needs of; meant to be used in: these kennels are for puppies. 8. in exchange for; at a cost of; to the amount of: I got it for hardly any money. 9. such as explains or results in: his reason for changing his job was not given. 10. in place of: a substitute for the injured player. 11. because of; through: she wept for pure relief. 12. with regard or consideration to the usual characteristics of: he's short for a man; it's cool for this time of year. 13. concerning; as regards: desire for money. 14. as being: we took him for the owner; I know that for a fact. 15. at a specified time: a date for the next evening. 16. to do or partake of: an appointment for supper. 17. in the duty or task of: that's for him to say. 18. to allow of: too big a job for us to handle. 19. despite; notwithstanding: she's a good wife, for all her nagging. 20. in order to preserve, retain, etc: to fight for survival. 21. as a direct equivalent to: word for word; weight for weight. 22. in order to become or enter: to go for a soldier; to train for the priesthood. 23. in recompense for: I paid for it last week; he took the punishment for his crime. 24. for it informal Brit liable for punishment or blame: you'll be for it if she catches you. 25. nothing for it no choice; no other courseconj (coordinating) for the following reason; because; seeing that: I couldn't stay, for the area was violent. [Old English; related to Old Norse fyr for, Old High German fora before, Latin per through, prō before, Greek pro before, in front]Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014for (fɔr; unstressed fər) prep. 1. with the object or purpose of: to run for exercise. 2. intended to belong to or be used in connection with: equipment for the army; a closet for dishes. 3. suiting the purposes or needs of: medicine for the aged. 4. in order to obtain, gain, or acquire: to work for wages. 5. (used to express a wish, as of something to be experienced or obtained): O, for a cold drink! 6. sensitive or responsive to: an eye for beauty. 7. desirous of: a longing for adventure. 8. in consideration or payment of; in return for: three for a dollar. 9. appropriate or adapted to: a subject for speculation; clothes for winter. 10. with regard or respect to: pressed for time. 11. during the continuance of: for a long time. 12. in favor of; on the side of: to be for honest government. 13. in place of; instead of: a substitute for butter. 14. in the interest of; on behalf of: to act for a client. 15. in exchange for; as an offset to: blow for blow. 16. in punishment of: payment for the crime. 17. in honor of: to give a dinner for a person. 18. with the purpose of reaching: to start for London. 19. contributive to: for the advantage of everybody. 20. in order to save: to flee for one's life. 21. in order to become: to train recruits for soldiers. 22. in assignment or attribution to: That's for you to decide. 23. such as to allow of or to require: too many for separate mention. 24. such as results in: my reason for going. 25. as affecting the interests or circumstances of: bad for one's health. 26. in proportion or with reference to: He is tall for his age. 27. in the character of; as being: to know a thing for a fact. 28. by reason of; because of: to shout for joy. 29. in spite of: They're decent people for all that. 30. to the extent or amount of: to walk for a mile. 31. (used to introduce a subject in an infinitive phrase): It's time for me to go. 32. (used to indicate the number of successes out of a specified number of attempts): The batter was 2 for 3 in the game. conj. 33. seeing that; since. 34. because. [before 900; Middle English, Old English] for- a prefix meaning “away,” “off,” “to the uttermost,” “extremely,” “wrongly,” or imparting a negative or privative force, occurring in verbs and nouns formed from verbs of Old or Middle English origin: forbid; forswear. [Middle English, Old English; compare Old High German fir-, far-, Latin per-, Greek peri-] for. 1. foreign. 2. forester. 3. forestry. Random House Kernerman Webster's College Dictionary, © 2010 K Dictionaries Ltd. Copyright 2005, 1997, 1991 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved.forIf something is for someone, they are intended to have it or benefit from it.He left a note for her on the table.She held out the flowers and said, 'They're for you.'I am doing everything I can for you.You use for in front of a noun phrase or -ing form when you state the purpose of an object, action, or activity.Some planes are for internal use, others for international flights.The mug had been used for mixing flour and water.You use for in front of a noun phrase when you are saying why someone does something.We stopped for lunch by the roadside.I went to the store for a newspaper.Be Careful!Don't use 'for' with an -ing form when you saying why someone does something. Don't say, for example, 'He went to the city for finding work'. You say 'He went to the city to find work' or 'He went to the city in order to find work'.People would stroll down the path to admire the garden.He had to hurry in order to reach the next place on his schedule.1. durationYou use for to say how long something lasts or continues.I'm staying with Bob for a few days.You also use for to say how long something has been the case.I have known you for a long time.He has been missing for three weeks.Be Careful!When you use for to say how long something has been the case, you must use a perfect form. Don't say, for example, 'I am living here for five years'. You must say 'I have lived here for five years'.2. 'since'Don't confuse for with since. You use since to say that something has been the case from a particular time in the past until now.Exam results have improved rapidly since 1999.I've known her since she was twelve.See since3. used to mean 'because'In stories, for is sometimes used to mean 'because'. This use is rather old-fashioned, and is not used in conversation.This is where he spent his free time, for he had nowhere else to go.See becauseCollins COBUILD English Usage © HarperCollins Publishers 1992, 2004, 2011, 2012
ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend:Switch to new thesaurus forpreposition1. intended, appropriate to, designed to meet the needs of a table for two2. on behalf of, representing the spokesman for the Democrats3. throughout, during, over a span of They talked for an hour.4. in favour of, backing, supporting, pro, in support of The case for nuclear power is impressive.5. towards, to, in the direction of traffic jams heading for the coast6. because of, due to, owing to, on account of For that reason, I do not think it matters.Collins Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002
Translationsلِلأَجْللِمُدَّة ، لِمَسافَةليكون مُسْتَعِدّامَعَ ، مؤيِّد، مُناصِرprozananeboťofortilii retning afmodfürdafürdennzunachγιαĉarporproporparahaciaduranteen dirección ajollekinjtkn vartenkoskapuolivartenpourcarparparce quependantבגללבכיווןבעדבשבילכיza-értfeléirántképest-nakfyrirfyrir; handa; tilímeî, til stuîningsmiîaî viîperperchépoichéproa favore di・・・のために・・・のための...을 위하여~을 위해atstovaujantis kamdėlnesā tpēc kadēļlabāneskatoties uznovoorwantnaartilforfordimotdladozaparaporporqueдляпрорадиzazaradiåtförmottillเพื่อเพื่อ ให้แก่ไว้สำหรับiçin-in karşılığındalehinde-mekolarakchodành chođược dùng để为了为了…代表作为因为FOR ABBR =free on rail → franco en ferrocarrilfor [fɔːʳ]When for is part of a phrasal verb, eg look for, make for, stand for, look up the verb. When it is part of a set combination, eg as for, a gift for, for sale, eager for, look up the other word.A. PREPOSITION1. (= going to) → parathe train for London → el tren para or de Londreshe left for Rome → salió para Romathe ship left for Vigo → el buque partió (con) rumbo a Vigohe swam for the shore → fue nadando hacia la playa2. (= intended for) → paraa table for two → una mesa para dosa cupboard for toys → un armario para los juguetesa cloth for polishing silver → un paño para sacarle brillo a la platait's not for cutting wood → no sirve para cortar maderathere's a letter for you → hay una carta para tiis this for me? → ¿es para mí esto?I have news for you → tengo que darte una noticiahats for women → sombreros de señoraclothes for children → ropa infantilI decided that it was the job for me → decidí que era el puesto que me conveníashe decided that hang-gliding was not for her → decidió que el vuelo con ala delta no era lo suyo3. (to express purpose) → parahe went there for a rest → fue allí para descansarwe went to Tossa for our holidays → fuimos a pasar las vacaciones a Tossa, fuimos a Tossa para las vacacioneswhat for? → ¿para qué?what's it for? → ¿para qué es or sirve?what do you want it for? → ¿para qué lo quieres?what did you do that for? → ¿por qué hiciste eso?4. (employment) → parahe works for the government → trabaja para el gobiernoto write for the papers → escribir para los periódicos5. (= on behalf of) I'll ask him for you → se lo preguntaré de tu parteI'll go for you → iré yo en tu lugar"I can't iron this shirt" - "don't worry, I'll iron it for you" → -no puedo planchar esta camisa, -no te preocupes, yo te la plancho"I still haven't booked the ticket" - "I'll do it for you" → -no he reservado el billete todavía -ya lo haré yowho is the representative for your group? → ¿quién es el representante de vuestro grupo?6. (= as in) → deG for George → G de Gerona7. (= in exchange for) → porI'll give you this book for that one → te cambio este libro por ésehe'll do it for £25 → lo hará por 25 librasfor every one who voted yes, 50 voted no → por cada persona que votó a favor, 50 votaron en contrato pay 50 pence for a ticket → pagar 50 peniques por una entradapound for pound, it's cheaper → es más económico de libra en librathe government will match each donation pound for pound → el gobierno igualará cada donativo, libra a libraI sold it for £5 → lo vendí por or en 5 libras8. (= to the value of) a cheque for £500 → un cheque or talón por valor de 500 librashow much is the cheque for? → ¿por cuánto es el cheque?9. (after adjective)9.1. (making comparisons) → parahe's tall/mature for his age → es alto/maduro para su edad or para la edad que tienehe's nice for a policeman → para policía es muy simpáticoit's cold for July → para ser julio hace fríoit's quite good for a six-year-old → está bastante bien para un niño de seis años9.2. (specifying) it was too difficult for her → era demasiado difícil para ella, le era demasiado difícilit was difficult for him to leave her → le resultó difícil dejarlathat's easy for you to say → para ti es fácil decirlo, a ti te es fácil decirlothey made it very easy for us → nos lo pusieron muy fácil10. (= in favour of) → a favor deI'm for the government → yo estoy a favor del gobiernoI'm for helping him → yo estoy a favor de ayudarleanyone for a game of cards? → ¿alguien se apunta a una partida de cartas?are you for or against the idea? → ¿estás a favor o en contra de la idea?are you for or against us? → ¿estás con nosotros o en contra?I'm all for it → estoy completamente a favorthe campaign for human rights → la campaña pro derechos humanos, la campaña en pro de los derechos humanosa collection for the poor → una colecta a beneficio de los pobres11. (= as, by way of) what's for dinner? → ¿qué hay para cenar?I had a sandwich for lunch → para almorzar me comí un bocadillo12. (= because of) → porit's famous for its cathedral → es famosa por su catedralif it weren't for you → si no fuera por tihe was sent to prison for fraud → lo mandaron a la cárcel por fraudeshe felt better for losing a bit of weight → se sentía mejor por haber adelgazado un pocoI couldn't see her for pot plants → no la veía por taparla las plantaswe chose it for its climate → lo escogimos por el climafor fear of being criticized → por miedo a la crítica, por temor a ser criticadoto shout for joy → gritar de alegría13. (= in spite of) → a pesar defor all his wealth → a pesar de su riquezafor all that → a pesar de todofor all he promised to come, he didn't → a pesar de habérmelo prometido, no vino14. (in expressions of time)14.1. (future/past duration)When translating for and a period of time, it is often unnecessary to translate for, as in the examples below where durante is optional: she will be away for a month → estará fuera un meshe worked in Spain for two years → trabajó dos años en EspañaI'm going for three weeks → me voy tres semanas, estaré allí tres semanasAlternatively, translate for using durante, or, especially when talking about very short periods, por. Use por also with the verb ir, although again it is often optional in this case: they waited for over two hours → estuvieron esperando durante más de dos horasfor a moment, he didn't know what to say → por un momento, no supo qué decirI'm going to the country for a while → me voy al campo (por) una temporadaI'm going away for a few days → me voy (por) unos cuantos díashe won't be back for a couple of hours/days → no regresará hasta dentro de un par de horas/días, tardará un par de horas/días en regresarwe went to the seaside for the day → fuimos a pasar el día en la playa14.2. (with English perfect tenses)Use hace...que and the present to describe actions and states that started in the past and are still going on. Alternatively use the present and desde hace. Another option is sometimes llevar and the gerund. Don't use the present perfect in Spanish to translate phrases like these, unless they are in the negative. he has been learning French for two years → hace dos años que estudia francés, estudia francés desde hace dos años, lleva dos años estudiando francésit has not rained for 3 weeks → hace 3 semanas que no llueve, no llueve or no ha llovido desde hace 3 semanas, lleva 3 semanas sin lloverI have known her for years → hace años que la conozco, la conozco desde hace añosI haven't seen her for two years → hace dos años que no la veo, no la he visto desde hace dos años, no la veo desde hace dos años, llevo dos años sin verlaNotice how the tenses change when talking about something that had happened or had been happening for a time: he had been learning French for two years → hacía dos años que estudiaba francés, estudiaba francés desde hacía dos años, llevaba dos años estudiando francésI hadn't seen her for two years → hacía dos años que no la veía, no la había visto desde hacía dos años, no la veía desde hacía dos años, llevaba dos años sin verla15. (= by, before) → paracan you do it for tomorrow? → ¿lo puedes hacer para mañana?when does he want it for? → ¿para cuándo lo quiere?16. (= on the occasion of) → paraI'll be home for Christmas → estaré en casa para las Navidadeshe asked his daughter what she would like for her birthday → le preguntó a su hija qué le gustaría para su cumpleaños17. (= for a distance of) there were roadworks for five miles → había obras a lo largo de cinco millaswe walked for two kilometres → caminamos dos kilómetrosyou can see for miles from the top of the hill → desde lo alto de la colina se puede ver hasta muy lejos18. (with infinitive clauses) for this to be possible → para que esto sea posible ...it's not for me to tell him what to do → yo no soy quien para decirle or no me corresponde a mí decirle lo que tiene que hacerit's not for you to blame him → tú no eres quien para culparlehe brought it for us to see → lo trajo para que lo viéramostheir one hope is for him to return → su única esperanza es que regreseit's bad for you to smoke so much → te perjudica fumar tantoit's best for you to go → es mejor que te vayasthere is still time for you to do it → todavía tienes tiempo para hacerlo19. (in other expressions) what's the German for "hill"? → ¿cómo se dice "colina" en alemán?oh for a cup of tea! → ¡lo que daría por una taza de té!you're for it! → ¡las vas a pagar!I'll be for it if he catches me here! → ¡me la voy a cargar si me pilla aquí!there's nothing for it but to jump → no hay más remedio que tirarsesee also exampleB. CONJUNCTION (liter) → pues, puesto queshe avoided him, for he was rude and uncouth → lo eludía puesto que or pues era grosero y ordinarioCollins Spanish Dictionary - Complete and Unabridged 8th Edition 2005 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1971, 1988 © HarperCollins Publishers 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2005for [ˈfər ˈfər] prep (= intended for) → poura present for me → un cadeau pour moi (= in the service of) → pourto work for sb/sth → travailler pour qn/qchHe works for the government → Il travaille pour le gouvernement.I'll do it for you → Je vais le faire pour toi. (= going to) → pourthe train for London → le train pour Londres (indicating intention, purpose)He went for the paper → Il est allé chercher le journal.It's time for lunch → C'est l'heure du déjeuner.What's it for? → Ça sert à quoi?what for? (= to what end) → pour quoi faire?Give me some money! - What for? → Donne-moi de l'argent! - Pour quoi faire? (= why) → pourquoi?for sale → à vendreThe factory's for sale → L'usine est à vendre. to be for it (British) (= going to be in trouble) → y avoir droitYou'll be for it! → Tu vas y avoir droit!, Ça va être ta fête! (= representing) → pourthe MP for Hove → le député de HoveG for George → G comme Georges (= meaning)What's the French for "lion"? → Comment dit-on "lion" en français? (= because of) → pourOxford is famous for its university → Oxford est célèbre pour son université.for this reason → pour cette raisonfor fear of being criticized → de peur d'être critiqué (implying a comparison) → pourIt's cold for July → Il fait froid pour juillet. (= in exchange for)I sold it for £5 → Je l'ai vendu cinq livres.to pay 50 pence for a ticket → payer un billet 50 penceHe paid fifty pence for his ticket → Il a payé son billet cinquante pence. (= in favour of) → pourAre you for or against us? → Êtes-vous pour ou contre nous?Are you for or against the idea? → Êtes-vous pour ou contre cette idée?to be all for sth (= be strongly in favour of) → être totalement pour qch (referring to distance) → pendant, surThere are road works for three kilometres → Il y a des travaux pendant trois kilomètres.We walked for miles → Nous avons marché pendant des kilomètres. (past time: completed action) → pendantHe worked in France for two years → Il a travaillé en France pendant deux ans.He was away for 2 years → Il a été absent pendant 2 ans. (future time)We're going to Spain for a fortnight → Nous partons en Espagne pour deux semaines.She will be away for a month → Elle sera absente (pendant) un mois. (uncompleted action) → depuisHe's been learning French for two years → Il apprend le français depuis deux ans.She's been away for a month → Elle est absente depuis un mois.I have known her for years → Je la connais depuis des années. (= by) → pourCan you do it for tomorrow? → Est-ce que vous pouvez le faire pour demain? for the first time → pour la première foisfor the second time → pour la deuxième foisfor the last time → pour la dernière fois (with infinitive clauses)It is not for me to decide → Ce n'est pas à moi de décider.It would be best for you to leave → Le mieux serait que vous partiez.There is still time for you to do it → Vous avez encore le temps de le faire.For this to be possible → Pour que cela soit possible ... (= in spite of) → malgréfor all his efforts → malgré tous ses effortsFor all his complaints, he's very fond of her → Il a beau se plaindre, il l'aime beaucoup.for all that → malgré cela, néanmoins conj (= since, as) → carCollins English/French Electronic Resource. © HarperCollins Publishers 2005for1 prep (intention) → für; (purpose) → zu, für; (destination) → nach; a letter for me → ein Brief für mich; clothes for children → Kleidung f → für Kinder, Kinderkleidung f; destined for greatness → zu Höherem bestimmt; what for? → wofür?, wozu?; what is this knife for? → wozu dient dieses Messer?; he does it for pleasure → er macht es zum or aus Vergnügen; what did you do that for? → warum or wozu haben Sie das getan?; a room for working in/sewing → ein Zimmer zum Arbeiten/Nähen; a bag for carrying books (in) → eine Tasche, um Bücher zu tragen; fit for nothing → zu nichts nutze or zu gebrauchen; to get ready for a journey → sich für eine Reise fertig machen; ready for anything → zu allem bereit; this will do for a hammer → das kann man als Hammer nehmen; to go to Spain for one’s holidays → nach Spanien in Urlaub fahren; the train for Stuttgart → der Zug nach Stuttgart; to leave for the USA → in die USA or nach Amerika abreisen; he swam for the shore → er schwamm auf die Küste zu, er schwamm in Richtung Küste; to make for home → sich auf den Heimweg machen (indicating suitability) it’s not for you to ask questions → Sie haben kein Recht, Fragen zu stellen; it’s not for me to say → es steht mir nicht zu, mich dazu zu äußern; she’s the woman or the one for me → sie ist die (richtige) Frau für mich; married life is not for me → das Eheleben ist nichts für mich (= representing, instead of) I’ll speak to her for you if you like → wenn Sie wollen, rede ich an Ihrer Stelle or für Sie mit ihr; I need someone to make up my mind for me → ich brauche jemanden, der die Entscheidung für mich trifft; to act for somebody → für jdn handeln; D for Daniel → D wie Daniel; agent for Renault → Vertreter(in) m(f) → für Renault; she works for a bank (in the bank) → sie arbeitet bei or in einer Bank; (outside the bank) → sie arbeitet für eine Bank (= in defence, in favour of) → für; are you for or against it? → sind Sie dafür oder dagegen?; I’m all for it → ich bin ganz or sehr dafür; I’m all for helping him → ich bin sehr dafür, ihm zu helfen; the case for nuclear power → die Argumente für die Atomkraft (= with regard to) anxious for somebody → um jdn besorgt; I’m very happy for you → ich freue mich sehr für euch; for my part → was mich betrifft; as for him/that → was ihn/das betrifft; warm/cold for the time of year → warm/kalt für die Jahreszeit; he is tall for his age → er ist groß für sein Alter; what do you want for your birthday? → was wünschst du dir zum Geburtstag?; it’s all right or all very well for you (to talk) → Sie haben gut reden; for further information see page 77 → weitere Informationen finden Sie auf Seite 77 (= because of) → aus; for this reason → aus diesem Grund; he did it for fear of being left → er tat es aus Angst, zurückgelassen zu werden; he is famous for his jokes/his big nose → er ist für seine Witze bekannt/wegen seiner großen Nase berühmt; to jump for joy → einen Freudensprung machen; to go to prison for theft → wegen Diebstahls ins Gefängnis wandern; to choose somebody for his ability → jdn wegen seiner Fähigkeiten wählen; if it were not for him → wenn er nicht wäre; do it for me → tu es für mich (= in spite of) → trotz (+gen or (inf) +dat); for all his wealth → trotz all seines Reichtums; for all that, you should have warned me → Sie hätten mich trotz allem warnen sollen (= in exchange) → für; to pay four euros for a ticket → vier Euro für eine Fahrkarte zahlen; he’ll do it for ten pounds → er macht es für zehn Pfund; pound for pound → Pfund für Pfund (= in contrast) for every job that is created, two are lost → für jede Stelle, die neu geschaffen wird, gehen zwei verloren (in time) → seit; (with future tense) → für; I have not seen her for two years → ich habe sie seit zwei Jahren nicht gesehen; he’s been here for ten days → er ist seit zehn Tagen hier; I had/have known her for years → ich kannte/kenne sie schon seit Jahren; then I did not see her for two years → dann habe ich sie zwei Jahre lang nicht gesehen; he walked for two hours → er ist zwei Stunden lang marschiert; I am going away for a few days → ich werde (für or auf) ein paar Tage wegfahren; I shall be away for a month → ich werde einen Monat (lang) weg sein; he won’t be back for a week → er wird erst in einer Woche zurück sein; I’ll be back home for Christmas → Weihnachten bin ich wieder zu Hause; can you get it done for Monday/this time next week? → können Sie es bis or für Montag/bis in einer Woche fertig haben?; I’ve got a job for you for next week → ich habe für nächste Woche Arbeit für dich; for a while/time → (für) eine Weile/einige Zeit; the meeting was scheduled for 9 o’clock → die Besprechung sollte um 9 Uhr stattfinden (distance) the road is lined with trees for two miles → die Straße ist auf or über zwei Meilen mit Bäumen gesäumt; we walked for two miles → wir sind zwei Meilen weit gelaufen; there are roadworks on the M8 for two miles → auf der M8 gibt es eine zwei Meilen lange Baustelle; for miles → meilenweit; for mile upon mile → Meile um Meile (with verbs) to pray for peace → für den or um Frieden beten; to hope for news → auf Nachricht hoffen; to look for something → (nach) etw suchen ? vbs (after n: indicating liking, aptitude etc) → für; a weakness for sweet things → eine Schwäche für Süßigkeiten; his knack for saying the wrong thing → sein Talent, das Falsche zu sagen (with infin clauses) for this to be possible → damit dies möglich wird; it’s easy for him to do it → für ihn ist es leicht, das zu tun, er kann das leicht tun; I brought it for you to see → ich habe es mitgebracht, damit Sie es sich (dat) → ansehen können; the best thing would be for you to leave → das Beste wäre, wenn Sie weggingen; there’s still time for him to come → er kann immer noch kommen; their one hope is for him to return → ihre einzige Hoffnung ist, dass er zurückkommt (phrases) to do something for oneself → etw alleine tun; for example → zum Beispiel; you’re (in) for it! (inf) → jetzt bist du dran! (inf); oh for a cup a tea! → jetzt eine Tasse Tee - das wäre schön! conj → denn; for it was too late → denn es war zu spät adj pred (= in favour) → dafür; 17 were for, 13 against → 17 waren dafür, 13 dagegenfor2 abbr of free on rail → frei BahnCollins German Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged 7th Edition 2005. © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1980 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2007FOR [ˌɛfəʊˈɑːʳ] abbr =free on rail → franco vagoneCollins Italian Dictionary 1st Edition © HarperCollins Publishers 1995for (foː) preposition1. to be given or sent to. This letter is for you. vir; die brief is vir jou لِ за para pro für til γιαpara jaoks, -le برای -lle pour לְ- के लिये za részére, -nak, -nek kepada fyrir; handa; til per ~あての ...에게 보낸 priekš untuk voortil, fordla دپاره para pentru для pre za za till ให้แก่; ให้กับ için, ...-e/-a 給...的 для کسی کے واسطے یا کسی کو ارسال کیا گیا cho 给...的2. towards; in the direction of. We set off for London. na; ons het na Londen vertrek نَحْو към para do nach til; i retning af για, προςpara, hacia, en dirección a suunas به سوی kohti pourאל की ओर से prema, u felé menuju til per ~に向けて ...을 향하여 į (norāda virzienu) uz menuju naartil, i retning avdo, w kierunku خواته para spre в, к do proti ka mot ไปยัง ...-e/-a 往 до, в напрямі کی طرف ؛ کی جہت về phía 往3. through a certain time or distance. for three hours; for three miles. vir; vir drie myl لِمُدَّة ، لِمَسافَة през период от време, разстояние durante po für i; over για, επίdurante kestel به میزان ajan kestosta pendant; sur לְ- के हिसाब से kroz, za -n át selama í per ~の間 (기간) …동안, (거리) …의 per (norāda attālumu vai laika posmu) selama langiprzez په پرتله.په ميزان durante timp de; (pe) o distanţă de в течение za, počas v; čez za i, under เป็นระยะ süresince, ...-dir/-dır 達 протягом; на відстань کسی مدت یا فاصلے کے دوران chỉ khoảng thời gian, khoảng cách 达4. in order to have, get, be etc. He asked me for some money; Go for a walk. vir geld; om te gaan stap من أجْل، بِخصوص желание за нещо (not used in Portuguese – não usado em português) o; na nach om για ; a midagi, kuskile برای هدف خاصی saadakseen, ollakseen, tehdäkseen pourבשביל, לשם-, כדי לקבל तक za, u miatt; -ért; -ra, -re untuk um, í di; a ~を得るために ...을 얻기 위해 (norāda uz nolūku) untuk omomo, w celu, na د خاص هدف دپاره на o; na za; na zbog efter, om สำหรับ ...-mek/-mak için 為了 про; на کچھ حاصل کرنے کے لۓ để giành được cái gì 为了5. in return; as payment. He paid $2 for his ticket. vir; vir sy kaartjie betaal مُقابِل в замяна por za für for για, έναντιpor eest برای؛ در قبال jostakin summasta pourבשביל बदले में za (platiti za kartu) -ért untuk fyrir per ~と交換に (보수, 교환) …의 보답으로 už (norāda vērtību) par untuk voorforza دپاره por pe за za za za för เป็นค่าใช้จ่าย ...-e/-a, ...-in karşılığında 換 за قیمت کے طور پر như giá cả của cái gì 换6. in order to be prepared. He's getting ready for the journey. vir; vir die reis gereedmaak ليكون مُسْتَعِدّا приготвяне за нещо para na für til για, για ναpara -ks, jaoks برای valmistautuakseen pour לל- तैयारी के सिलसिले में za (pripremiti se za) -ra, -re untuk fyrir per ~に備えて ...에 대비하여 к (norāda uz mērķi) untuk voortildo دپاره para pentru к na za za för เตรียมพร้อม için 為...準備 до تیاری کے لۓ chuẩn bị cho 为了…7. representing. He is the member of parliament for Hull. van; lid van die parlement مُمَثِّلا لِ представляващ por za für for γιαpor poolt از طرف edustaa pourמטעם की ओर से (predstavnik) za Hull képviselője mewakili fyrir per ~を代表して ...을 대표하여 atstovaujantis kam (pārstāvot kādu) no mewakili voorforz له خوا por din partea за za za za för แห่ง; ของ için, adına 代表 від نمائندگی کرنا đại diện của ai/cái gì 代表8. on behalf of. Will you do it for me? vir; vir my doen بالنيابَة عَن заради por pro; za für for εκ μέρουςpor eest به سود؛ برای puolesta pourבשביל की तरफ से u ime vki érdekében, -ért untuk fyrir (hönd e-s) per ~の代りに ...을 위하여 už (kāda) labā untuk voorfordla دپاره por în favoarea; pentru для, ради za, kvôli za umesto för, åt ในฐานะของ için, adına 替 для کسی کی نیابت thay mặt ai 替9. in favour of. Are you for or against the plan? vir; vir of daarteen مَعَ ، مؤيِّد، مُناصِر за (подкрепа) por pro dafür for υπέρpor, a favor de poolt موافق puolesta pourבעד के पक्ष में za (ili protiv) vmi mellett setuju með, til stuðnings pro, a favore ~に賛成して ...에 찬성하여 už par setuju voorforza موافق por în favoarea; pentru за pre za za för เห็นด้วย; สนับสนุน taraftar, lehinde 贊成 за کسی کے طرفداری میں ủng hộ ai/cái gì 赞成10. because of. for this reason. vir hierdie rede; om hierdie rede بِسَبب защото por kvůli, pro, z wegen, aus af γι' αυτό, γιαpor, a causa de tõttu به جهت varten pourבגלל के कारण zbog miatt karena vegna, fyrir per ~の理由で ...때문에 dėl dēļ kerana omav, på grunn avz powodu خواته por din по причине; из-за pre, z zaradi zbog av เนื่องจาก için, yüzünden 由於 через کسی وجہ سے bởi vì (cái gì); tính đến (cái gì) 由于11. having a particular purpose. She gave me money for the bus fare. vir; vir die busgeld من أجل شَيء مُعَيَّن показва определена цел para na für til γιαpara -ks, jaoks برای هدف خاصی varten pourעבור, בשביל किसी खास मकसद से za (određena namjena) céljából, -ra, -re untuk fyrir per ~のために ...의 목적에 맞는 для (norāda nolūku) untuk voorfor, tilna د خاص هدف دپاره para pentru для na za za till ด้วยเหตุที่ için, amacıyla 為某一目的 для کوئی خاص وجہ ہونا dành cho; để 作为12. indicating an ability or an attitude to. a talent for baking; an ear for music. vir; 'n aanleg vir musiek (قُدره أو موهِبَه) في مجال، لِ показващ талант за нещо para/por pro für for για, προςpara -le, vastu برای osoittaa kykyä tai asennetta pour לְ- पसंद za (talent za, uho za) iránt untuk fyrir per ~向きの (재능, 기호, 감정의 대상) …에 대해서 к (norāda attieksmi, spējas) untuk voorfordo, dla دپاره para/por pentru к na za za för ในเรื่อง ...-e/-a 適合於 до صلاحیت یا رویہ کی طرف اشارہ کرنا chỉ khả năng, thái độ 适合于13. as being. They mistook him for someone else. vir; vir iemand anders aangesien على أنَّه с (някой) por za für for γιαpor, para -ks به جای luulla toiseksi pourש- बतौर (zamijeniti) za, s -val, -vel sebagai fyrir per ~だとして (소속, 자격) …으로, …이라고 за sebagai voorforza په ځای کی por drept за za; s za za för เป็น ...olarak 看作 за کسی اور کی جگہ như là 看作14. considering what is used in the case of. It is quite warm for January (= considering that it is January when it is usually cold). vir آخذين بعين الأعْتِبار أنَّ، بالنِسْبَةِ لِ в сравнение с обикновено para na für for γιαpara kohta برای ollakseen jtk pour יַחֲסִית ל के हिसाब से za (prilično je toplo za siječanj) képest untuk miðað við per ~の割には (비교, 비율) …으로서는, …치고서는 для bagi voor til å være jak na دپاره para pentru для na za s obzirom na to da för [att vara] พิจารณา ...-e/-a göre, göz önüne alınırsa 就...而言 для کسی چیز کے لحاظ سے مختلف ہونا mong đợi từ ai/cái gì 就...而言15. in spite of. For all his money, he didn't seem happy. ondanks al sy geld بالرَّغْم въпреки apesar de přes trotz på trods af παράa pesar de hoolimata با وجود huolimatta malgréלמרות बावजूद unatoč, usprkos vmi ellenére walaupun þrátt fyrir malgrado, nonostante ~にもかかわらず ...에도 불구하고 nežiūrint neskatoties uz; par spīti walaupun ondankstrass i, trossmimo سره د دی هم apesar de în ciuda несмотря на napriek kljub uprkos trots เนื่องจาก ...-e rağmen 儘管 всупереч بجز اس کے mặc dù 尽管 conjunction because. It must be late, for I have been here a long time. want ek is al vir 'n lang tyd hier بِسَبَب، لأنَّ защото pois protože denn for επειδή, καθώςya que, puesto que sest (et) چون که koska carבגלל क्योंकि jer, budući da ugyanis, mert sebab vegna perché なぜなら 왜냐하면 nes jo; tāpēc ka sebab wantforponieważ له دی کبله pois deoarece так как; ибо pretože ker jer för, ty เพราะว่า çünkü, zira 因為 тому що کے نتیجے bởi vì 因为Kernerman English Multilingual Dictionary © 2006-2013 K Dictionaries Ltd.for → لِ, لأَجْل místo, na, pro for, til für, zu για para, por jollekin, jtkn varten, varten pour za per ・・・のために, ・・・のための ...을 위하여, ~을 위해 voor for, til dla, do para для åt, för, till เพื่อ, เพื่อ ให้แก่, ไว้สำหรับ için cho, dành cho, được dùng để 为…, 为了, 为了…Multilingual Translator © HarperCollins Publishers 2009for prep. [intended for the use of] para,an antibiotic ___ the infection → un antibiótico ___ la infección; [in exchange for] por; a thermometer ___ taking the temperature → un termómetro ___ tomar la temperatura; [for the benefit of] para; do it ___ her → hágalo, hazlo ___ ella; ___ the time being → ___ ahora, ___ el momento; the medicine is ___ the patient → la medicina es ___ el paciente; [for the purpose of] para; you pay a dollar ___ each pill → paga un dólar ___ cada pastilla; [for the sake of] por. English-Spanish Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012I work for ... → أَعْمَلُ لَدى ... → Pracuji pro ... → Jeg arbejder for ... → Ich arbeite bei ... → Εργάζομαι για ... → Trabajo para ... → Teen töitä ...lla → Je travaille pour ... → Radim za ... → Lavoro per ... → 私は・・・に勤めています → ...에서 일해요 → Ik werk voor ... → Jeg jobber for ... → Pracuję dla ... → Eu trabalho para ... → Я работаю в … → Jag arbetar för ... → ฉันทำงานกับ…. → ... a çalışıyorum → Tôi làm việc cho ... → 我为...工作We're looking for ... → إِنَّنا نَبْحَثُ عَنْ ... → Hledáme ... → Vi leder efter ... → Wir suchen nach ... → Ψάχνουμε για ... → Buscamos ... → Etsimme ... → Nous cherchons ... → Tražimo ... → Stiamo cercando ... → 私たちは・・・を探しています → 우리는 ...을 찾고 있어요 → We zijn op zoek naar ... → Vi ser etter ... → Szukamy ... → Nós estamos procurando ... → Мы ищем … → Vi letar efter ... → เรากำลังมองหา…. → ... ı arıyoruz → Chúng tôi đang tìm ... → 我们想要去...I'd like two tickets for tonight → أُريدُ تَذْكِرَتَيـْنِ لِهَذِهِ اللَيْلَةَ → Chtěl bych dvě vstupenky na dnešní večer → To billetter til i aften, tak → Ich möchte zwei Karten für heute Abend → Θα ήθελα δύο εισιτήρια για απόψε → Quisiera dos boletos para esta noche → Haluaisin kaksi lippua täksi illaksi → Deux billets pour ce soir, s'il vous plaît → Dvije karte za večeras → Vorrei due biglietti per questa sera → 今夜の切符を2枚ください → 오늘 밤 표 두 장 주세요 → Twee kaartjes voor vanavond graag → Jeg vil gjerne ha to billetter til i kveld → Proszę dwa bilety na dzisiejszy wieczór → Eu queria dois bilhetes para esta noite → Мне нужны два билета на сегодняшний вечер → Jag skulle vilja ha två biljetter till ikväll, tack → ฉันอยากได้ตั๋วสองใบสำหรับคืนนี้ → Bu akşam için iki bilet almak istiyorum → Tôi muốn mua hai vé cho tối nay → 我要买今天晚上的两张票Please wait for me → انْتَظِرْني مِنْ فَضْلِكَ → Počkejte na mě, prosím → Vent venligst på mig → Warten Sie bitte auf mich → Περιμένετέ με, παρακαλώ → Espéreme, por favor → Odottakaa minua → Attendez-moi → Molim vas, pričekajte me → Mi aspetti, per favore → 私を待っていてください → 기다려 주세요 → Wacht op mij alstublieft → Vent på meg, er du snill → Proszę na mnie poczekać → Por favor, espere por mim → Подождите меня, пожалуйста → Kan ni vänta på mig, tack → รอฉันด้วย → Lütfen beni bekleyin → Xin đợi tôi → 请等等我Do you have a room for tonight? → هَلْ لَدَيْكُمْ غُرْفَةٌ شَاغِرَةٌ اللَّيْلَةَ؟ → Máte pokoj na dnešní noc? → Har I et værelse i nat? → Haben Sie ein Zimmer für diese Nacht? → Έχετε δωμάτιο γι’ απόψε; → ¿Tiene una habitación para esta noche? → Onko teillä huonetta täksi yöksi? → Vous avez une chambre pour ce soir ? → Imate li slobodnu sobu za večeras? → Ha una camera per questa notte? → 今晩部屋はありますか? → 오늘 밤 방 있어요? → Hebt u een kamer voor vannacht? → Har dere et ledig rom i natt? → Czy jest tu wolny pokój na dzisiaj wieczór? → O senhor tem um quarto para esta noite? → У Вас есть номер на сегодняшний вечер? → Har ni ett rum för i natt? → คุณมีสักห้องหนึ่งสำหรับคืนนี้ไหม? → Bu gece için odanız var mı? → Bạn có phòng cho tối nay không? → 你们这儿今晚有空房吗?Collins Multilingual Translator © HarperCollins Publishers 2009
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What’s the Difference Between To and For? | Grammarly
What’s the Difference Between To and For? | Grammarly
Grammarly HomeProductLearnFeaturesProduct DemoTrust & SecurityDownloadDesktopMobileBrowserWorkBy Team SizeEnterpriseTeams & BusinessesIndividualsBy Team FunctionCustomer SupportMarketingITSalesHREducationStudentsInstitutionsPricingResourcesLearnBlogCustomer StoriesBusiness Events & ReportsEducation Events & ReportsSupport CenterToolsAI Writing ToolsGrammar CheckerPlagiarism CheckerParaphrasing ToolContact SalesLog inGet GrammarlyIt's freeGrammarly HomeProductLearnFeaturesProduct DemoTrust & SecurityDownloadDesktopMobileBrowserWorkBy Team SizeEnterpriseTeams & BusinessesIndividualsBy Team FunctionCustomer SupportMarketingITSalesHREducationStudentsInstitutionsPricingResourcesLearnBlogCustomer StoriesBusiness Events & ReportsEducation Events & ReportsSupport CenterToolsAI Writing ToolsGrammar CheckerPlagiarism CheckerParaphrasing ToolGet GrammarlyIt's freeContact SalesLog inGrammarly Blog HomeWritingWriting TipsGrammarStudentsProfessionalsLifestyleProductCompanyGrammarly HomeWritingWriting TipsGrammarStudentsProfessionalsLifestyleProductCompanyGet GrammarlyIt's freeContact SalesLog inTo vs. For: What’s the Difference?Matt EllisUpdated on April 22, 2022GrammarTo and for are some of the most common prepositions in English—you see them everywhere, in almost every sentence. That’s what makes it so frustrating to get them mixed up; after all, the for and to difference isn’t exactly easy to understand.
Even people who use English as their primary language sometimes get confused about to vs. for, so we wanted to clear things up once and for all. Below we explain the difference between to and for, including when to use each, common mistakes, and plenty of examples.
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What is the general difference between to and for?
To and for are similar, so it’s easy to get them confused. Both to and for are prepositions, one of the eight parts of speech, and both are used quite a lot. The difference between to and for lies in their meanings and the words they’re typically used with.
We explain those meanings in the next sections, but for now let’s talk about the differences between for and to. For example, to is one of the prepositions of direction, which means it can be used to express movement, whereas for is not (except in rare cases, where one could say “I think we’re headed for a dead end,” for example). Additionally, to can indicate the infinitive form of verbs, which for cannot.
Likewise, for has its own unique uses that to doesn’t have. For can sometimes act as a coordinating conjunction, meaning it can connect two clauses in a sentence, something to cannot do.
Aside from their usage as prepositions and special grammar situations like infinitives and conjunctions, both to and for are also used as parts of phrasal verbs. When used in phrasal verbs, however, they no longer act independently and instead take on the meaning of that particular phrasal verb.
When to use to
When do you use to in a sentence? Here are the main uses of the preposition to:
1
Direction
Expressing movement toward something
We’re going to the zoo this weekend.
Look to the left and right when crossing the street.
2
Receiving
Showing who or what receives an action or item
Furlong passed the ball to Sexton at the last second.
We didn’t invite Karen because she was always mean to us.
3
Connection
Showing an abstract link between two people
I am married to my best friend.
This is Dwight, assistant to the regional manager.
4
Attachment
Showing a physical attachment between two things
The piece of paper was accidentally glued to my hand.
I chained my bike to a bench, but the bench was stolen.
5
Comparison
Introducing the second part of a comparison
High school is easy compared to college.
They preferred water to soda.
6
Reason (with verb)
Describing why something happened, when the explanation uses a verb
He shouldn’t have joined the army to impress people.
I study so much to get good grades.
Other main uses of to
Infinitives—In the infinitive form of a verb, to comes before the root verb.
I want to be an astronaut.
To succeed in anything requires motivation.
Time—Especially in British English, to is used to mean “before” a certain time.
It’s a quarter to four. (3:45)
Ten minutes to closing!
Synonym of “until”—To is often used colloquially as a replacement for “until.”
We’re open from dawn to dusk.
I’m with you to the end of the line, Bucky.
When to use for
When do you use for in a sentence? Here are the main uses of the preposition for:
1
Support
Indicating agreement, allegiance, or favor toward something
I always root for the underdog at games.
If you’re not for the union, you’re against it!
2
Representation
Showing an action on behalf of or representing something else
I speak for everyone when I say that we’re happy you’re here.
I may work for Walmart, but I don’t shop there.
3
Exchange
Introducing the second part of a purchase, deal, or trade
I’ll give you my potato chips for your mini-muffin.
He bought the entire Skrillex discography for only a dollar.
4
Length
Indicating length of time or distance
She worked there for four years and the boss never learned her name.
Go straight for a few miles and then turn left.
5
Gratitude
Showing thanks or gratitude
Thank you for your email.
It isn’t much, but I’m grateful for what I have.
6
Reason (with noun)
Describing why something happened, when the explanation uses a noun
She became a doctor for the money, not the long hours.
We have to practice extra for the tournament.
Other main uses of for
Conjunction—For is a coordinating conjunction that acts as a synonym of “because,” although today it’s a little outdated. (If you’ve learned the FANBOYS acronym, for is the F.)
Don’t go out past midnight, for it’s not safe.
The crops aren’t growing, for the weather is lousy.
Comparisons with what’s normal—You can use for to emphasize how something is different from the norm or general standard.
She’s tall for her age.
“You’re not bad for an elf,” said the dwarf.
Scheduling—For is used to indicate a planned arrangement in the future.
I have a dentist appointment scheduled for Tuesday.
Is our D&D session still on for later?
Common word pairings that use to and for
Certain words just go together, even when other words are technically correct too. When you’re familiar with a language, specific word pairings just sound “natural” because everyone seems to use them, but swapping one of those words with another doesn’t sound as good because the phrasing is less common. For example, we often say “save time,” but rarely use “conserve time,” even though both are correct and have the same meaning. These pairings are known as collocations.
For people whose primary language is not English, collocations can be difficult to remember, especially with prepositions. So below we’ve included a short list of the common words that usually pair with to and for. We’ve also included some popular phrasal verbs to help you understand which words use to and which words use for.
Word pairings that use to:
access to
addiction/addicted to
attraction/attracted to
change to
contribute to
dedicate/dedication to
new to
react/reaction to
refer/reference to
respond/response to
threat to
transition to
to some extent
to [someone’s] surprise
to [someone’s] face
to this day
Common phrasal verbs with to:
get around to
get down to
get to
look up to
see to
Word pairings that use for
advertise/advertisement for
approval for
argue/argument for
care for
cure for
hunger/hungry for
pay for
recipe for
room for
search for
study for
talent for
thirst/thirsty for
for a living
for a while
for free
for good
for now
for sale
for starters
for sure
for the best
for the record
for the time being
Common phrasal verbs with for:
go for
look for
look / watch out for
Using to vs. for with purpose and reasons
Looking at the uses of to and for individually, you’ll notice there’s some overlap, particularly when it comes to reasons and explaining why. This topic alone creates a lot of the to vs. for confusion.
When it comes to purpose and reason, the simple difference between to and for is:
to is used with verbs
for is used with nouns
Consider these examples:
I came here to see you.
I came here for you.
Both communicate similar messages, but with different words. The first sentence uses to because the reason is a verb (“see”); the second sentence uses for because the reason is a noun (“you”).
Using important to vs. important for
It’s quite common to hear both “important to someone” and “important for someone.” While they’re both grammatically correct—and similar—their meanings have a slight difference that’s worth mentioning.
important to indicates personal or sentimental value, with emotional significance
important for indicates a practical benefit, not always an emotional significance
As an example, a job interview might be important for you as a way to make money and afford your lifestyle. However, if the interview is for your childhood dream job, then the job interview can also be important to you because it reflects a personal passion.
Using to vs. for with receiving something
Although to is more closely related to receiving something, people often mix it up with for. Because for indicates a reason that’s a noun—in this case, a person—it can get confusing.
Essentially, when you’re talking about someone receiving something directly, use to followed by the recipient (the person who receives something).
Every year I give a birthday gift to my dog.
If you’re talking about the reason or purpose behind doing something—but not the actual giving—use for.
I bought a birthday gift for my dog.
Notice how the action in the last sentence is about buying the gift, not giving the gift.
To vs. for FAQs
What is the difference between to and for when communicating the reason for or purpose of something?
If the explanation is a verb, use to, as in, “learning a language to communicate.” If the explanation is a noun, use for, as in, “learning a language for communication.”
What is the difference between to and for when communicating the recipient of something?
If the sentence discusses the actual action of giving or transferring, use to followed by the recipient, as in, “he handed the gift to her.” If the sentence discusses the reason why something is given or transferred, use for, as in, “he picked out a gift for her.”
What is the difference between to and for when communicating the importance of something?
Saying that something is “important to” someone means that it has personal or emotional significance. Saying that something is “important for” someone suggests that the benefit is practical, not emotional.
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