For: meaning, definitions and examples

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for

[fɔːr ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Preposition}

in a specific period of time

used to indicate the duration of time that something lasts or is valid for

Synonyms

during, over, throughout.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
for	Indicates a specific duration or period of time. Commonly used for a continuous period. She studied for three hours. He has been working here for five years.
during	Refers to a specific period or event within which something happens. It does not necessarily cover the entire period. She learned a lot during her trip. There were power outages during the storm.
throughout	Used to express that something happens continuously over the entire duration of a period or in every part of a place. She was nervous throughout the interview. The campaign runs throughout the year.
over	Indicates an extended period in which something occurs, often suggesting a spread or range of time. Prices have risen over the past decade. He improved his skills over the years.

Examples of usage

He's been working here for three years.
She will be on vacation for two weeks.
I have known him for a long time.

^{Context #2 | Conjunction}

introducing the reason for an action or situation

used to introduce the reason for an action or situation

Synonyms

as, because, since.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
for	Typically used in formal writing or speech to indicate a reason or explanation. She wore a coat, for it was cold outside. He didn't go to the party, for he was very tired.
because	Commonly used in both formal and informal settings to provide a straightforward reason or cause. He didn't come to school because he was sick. They were late because of the traffic.
since	Used to indicate a cause and often has a temporal aspect, implying both reason and time. Since they moved, we haven't seen them much. I haven't been able to study properly since my younger sibling was born.
as	Used to explain the reason, often in more casual conversation. She decided to stay home, as she was feeling ill. They left early, as they had another appointment.

Examples of usage

She went to the doctor, for she was feeling unwell.
He must be busy, for he hasn't replied to my messages.

^{Context #3 | Preposition}

to indicate purpose or intended recipient

used to show the purpose or intended recipient of an action

Synonyms

intended for, targeted at.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
for	Use in general purposes to indicate the intended recipient or use of something. This gift is for you The medicine is for headaches
intended for	Highlights the specific purpose or recipient more formally or when emphasizing the planning behind the action. This training program is intended for new employees These instructions are intended for advanced users
targeted at	Used when emphasizing the direction or focus towards a specific group, often in marketing or strategic contexts. The new campaign is targeted at young adults The product is targeted at tech-savvy consumers

Word

Description / Examples

for

Use in general purposes to indicate the intended recipient or use of something.

This gift is for you
The medicine is for headaches

intended for

Highlights the specific purpose or recipient more formally or when emphasizing the planning behind the action.

This training program is intended for new employees
These instructions are intended for advanced users

targeted at

Used when emphasizing the direction or focus towards a specific group, often in marketing or strategic contexts.

The new campaign is targeted at young adults
The product is targeted at tech-savvy consumers

Examples of usage

This gift is for you.
He's studying for his exams.
She baked a cake for her friend's birthday.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'for' comes from Old English 'for,' which indicated purpose or attention.
In various Germanic languages, similar words are used to express the same idea, showing common roots.
It has remained a function word in English, evolving but retaining its essential purpose for relational context.

Grammar

'For' is a preposition, meaning it connects a noun or pronoun to other words in a sentence.
It is commonly used to indicate purpose, as in 'This gift is for you.'
The word can also express duration of time, such as in 'I will be here for an hour.'

Usage in Expressions

The phrase 'for example' is often used to introduce demonstrations or illustrations in writing or speech.
'For the sake of' suggests doing something for a specific reason, often involving standing up for someone or something.
In expressions of gratitude, 'thank you for...' provides clarity about what is appreciated.

Cultural Insights

In many cultures, the concept of doing something 'for' someone shows generosity and community spirit.
Various languages have unique expressions that include a word similar to 'for', highlighting universal themes of purpose and intention.
This relational word captures the essence of giving; its usage reflects values of kindness in social contexts.

Philosophy

The usage of 'for' in philosophical discussions speaks to intentionality, exploring the reasons behind actions.
It raises questions about duty and morality, as people often act 'for' the benefit of others.
This word is central in discussions about ethics, emphasizing motivation and purpose in human behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "for" in other languages:

🇵🇹 para

🇮🇳 के लिए

🇩🇪 für

🇮🇩 untuk

🇺🇦 для

🇵🇱 dla

🇯🇵 ために (tameni)

🇫🇷 pour

🇪🇸 para

🇹🇷 için

🇰🇷 위해 (wihae)

🇸🇦 لِ

🇨🇿 pro

🇸🇰 pre

🇨🇳 为了 (wèile)

🇸🇮 za

🇮🇸 fyrir

🇰🇿 үшін

🇬🇪 თვის

🇦🇿 üçün

🇲🇽 para

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #4, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.

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