To vs. For: What’s the Difference? Learn How to Use “To” and “For” in English Sentences

Look at these two sentences:

Can you bring some flowers for Mary?

Can you bring some flowers to Mary?

Do these sentences have different meanings?

The answer is yes—these sentences have different meanings. But maybe you can’t see why.

Are you confused about when to use “to” vs. “for” in English sentences?

Well, you’ve come to the right place.

English grammar can be complicated. Some pairs of similar English words like “to” and “for” can be very difficult for English learners. But I’m here to help.

To vs. For: What’s the Difference? Learn How to Use “To” and “For” in English Sentences

“To” and “for” are commonly used as prepositions. Changing a preposition, such as using “to” in the place of “for,” can completely alter the meaning of a sentence.

Sometimes, if you use the wrong word, you’ll get a sentence that isn’t grammatically correct.

So, let’s begin by talking about one of the most common (and most confusing) uses of “to” and “for”:

Using “To” vs. “For” to Talk About Reasons and Purposes

We frequently use the prepositions “to” and “for” to talk about why somebody did something. Let’s look at a few examples.

Why did you travel to London?
I traveled to London to improve my English.

Why did she buy a cake?
She bought a cake for her brother’s birthday.

Why are you going home?
I’m going home to feed my cats.

Why did you go to the museum yesterday?
I went to the museum for a lecture on modern art.

In sentences like these, “to” and “for” mean the same thing, but they aren’t used in the same way.

For example, if you said, “I’m going home for feed my cats,” that would be incorrect. You need to use “to.”

So, how do you know when to use “to” and when to use “for”?

It might seem complicated, but the answer is actually very simple. Use “to” when the reason or purpose is a verb. Use “for” when the reason or purpose is a noun.

That’s all!

Let’s look at some more examples of “to” and “for” used side-by-side:

I bought a present to give to Sarah on her birthday. (verb)
I bought a present for Sarah’s birthday. (noun)

I drink coffee to feel more awake. (verb)
I drink coffee for its wonderful taste. (noun)

I’m exercising to stay healthy. (verb)
I’m exercising for my health. (noun)

Once you’ve learned that rule, using “to” and “for” becomes much easier. Now that you’ve mastered the hardest part, let’s look at some other uses of “to” and “for.”

Other Uses of the Word “To”

Here are some of the situations where we commonly use “to.”

Use “to” when talking about movement or a change in direction

“To” is used as a preposition if there’s movement, a transfer or a change in direction from one point to another.

For example,

I need you to take these books to Mary.

We are going to Paris next Tuesday.

In the first example, “to” is used to suggest a transfer of the books from “you” to “Mary.” In the next example, “to” indicates (shows) a change of place from the speaker’s location to Paris.

Use “to” with English infinitive verbs

Any English verb in the infinitive form will include the word “to.” You will frequently see this construction in English sentences.

For example,

Nina loves to talk on the phone.

When do you want to eat dinner?

We’re going to meet the Queen tomorrow!

Use “to” when comparing two things

“To” is often used in comparing two things and expressing one’s preferences (likes).

For example,

I prefer coffee to tea.

She prefers reading books to watching movies.

Other Uses of the Word “For”

Now, it’s time to learn about the word “for.” “For” is used as both a preposition and conjunction, but it’s much more common as a preposition.

Let’s learn when to use it!

Use “for” when expressing thanks or gratitude

If you want to thank someone, you’ll usually use the word “for” to explain why you’re thanking them.

The word “for” will be followed by a noun or gerund (a verb that ends with “-ing”).

For example,

Thank you for teaching me to play the guitar.

Thanks so much for the new shoes!

Matthew thanked Brian for coming to his birthday party.

Use “for” when talking about a duration of time

“For” is also used to talk about a length of time during which something happened.

For example,

I waited at the station for two hours.

They have lived in Ohio for eight years.

We’ve known each other for a long time.

Use “for” when expressing support and agreement

“For” is used to indicate agreement with or support of a cause.

For example,

Are you for or against the women’s movement?

I’m all for increasing taxes.

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