For
/fɔːr/
Definitions
2 meaningsUsed to indicate the object or recipient of something, the reason or purpose of something, or a period of time.
/fɔːr/
Expressing purpose, intention, or reason
I'm saving money for a new car.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're giving a present. 'For' is like saying who gets the present: "This toy is *for* my friend!"
👶 For kids: Used to show who something is for, like a present or a treat!
More Examples
This gift is for my sister.
We went for a walk.
He's known for his kindness.
How It's Used
"I bought this book for you."
"Please send the invoice for review."
Used to introduce the reason or cause for something (similar to 'because' but less common).
/fɔːr/
Introducing a reason or explanation
She was happy, for the sun was shining.
💡 Simply: 'For' is like saying "because" or "since" but used a little differently in sentences: "He couldn't go *for* he was sick."
👶 For kids: Like saying "because" but in a special way!
More Examples
He stayed home, for he was feeling unwell.
They celebrated, for they had won the game.
How It's Used
"She was late, for her train had been delayed."
Idioms & expressions
for sure
Definitely; certainly; without a doubt.
"Are you going to the party? For sure!"
for the time being
At the present time; temporarily.
"Let's leave it like this for the time being."
for good
Forever; permanently.
"She left the country for good."
for all
Despite; in spite of.
"For all his wealth, he's still unhappy."
From Old English *for* (preposition, conjunction), from Proto-Germanic *fur* (preposition), from Proto-Indo-European *pér* (before, in front of).
Used extensively in Old English and throughout history as a preposition and conjunction.
Memory tip
Think of 'for' as the direction of a gift or action, like the person who gets the cookie.
Word Origin
"In front of, before, or instead of."