preposition
Shows who is meant to receive something or benefit from an action.
This letter is for Maria.
I saved a seat for you.
Common phrases & grammar
a gift for someone
do something for someone
American English
How to pronounce for
preposition · conjunctionA1Very common word
FOR
/fɔɹ/
One syllable.
Shows who is meant to receive something or benefit from an action.
What to listen for
“For” is pronounced “for” (/fɔɹ/) when said alone or with emphasis, but in natural connected speech it is usually reduced to “fer” (/fɚ/). Some American accents use “far” (/fɑɹ/) for the strong form.
Said alone or with emphasis/fɔɹ/
Natural connected speech/fɚ/
Meanings & examples
preposition
Shows the purpose of a thing or activity, or the person or group it suits.
This brush is for cleaning shoes.
That movie is not for young children.
Common phrases & grammar
a tool for doing something
be good or bad for someone
preposition
During a stated length of time.
We waited for two hours.
She has lived here for ten years.
Good to know
Use for with a total length of time: for two hours. Use since with the time when something began: since Monday.
Common phrases & grammar
for a long time
for + period of time
wait or stay for + period of time
preposition
Employed by a person, business, or organization.
She works for a small company.
He used to work for the city.
Common phrases & grammar
work for + employer
Useful expressions
Used to give one example of something just mentioned.
Some animals hibernate, for example bears.
At the present time, but not permanently.
For now, let's wait here.
Certainly; without doubt.
She will call tonight for sure.