For – part 2

By admin 5 comments

We can use for to mean ‘because’. We only use this in very formal English.

  • The divers have to be careful for a sudden change in conditions could be dangerous.
  • Read the instructions carefully for you will only get one chance to enter the information.

We can use for to talk about a purpose or a reason.

  • What did you that for?
  • What is that for?
  • Thank you for your letter.
  • I don’t have enough money for the ticket. 
  • I need treatment for my bad back.

For can mean that you are in favour/favor of something.

  • He is for the idea of cutting taxes.
  • I am for this change in the way we do things.
  • You need to stand up for what is right.

We can use for with expressions of time and distance.

  • I walked for miles.
  • I waited for a long time.
  • We will be away for the next week.

Sometimes we can omit the for completely in these expressions without changing the meaning.

  •  I walked miles.
  • I waited a long time.

With the present perfect, for refers to a length of time. Since refers to the starting point.

  • I have studied English for seven years.
  • I have studied English since I was 12.

Here are some useful expressions using for

  • I enclose a cheque/check for 100 euros
  • What’s another word for stupid?
  • I’ve known him for ages.
  • I am all for making this change.
  • Get ready.  –What for?   –Anne is coming.

5 Comments

Irvine Lagman

Feb 2, 2012, 5:00 pm

Thanks again for this helpful tool.

MARTA BERNET

Feb 2, 2012, 9:58 pm

thank you so much for your lessons.
br
marta bernet
barcelona

jeena

Feb 2, 2012, 5:59 am

Thank you

phildelia

Feb 2, 2012, 9:00 am

thanks is a little bit clear now

znb

Feb 2, 2012, 8:48 am

thank you so much for your helpful lessons.

kety

Sep 9, 2012, 8:30 pm

Thanks a million!!! It’s very useful!!

Comments are closed.