For example vs Like what

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

For example

Top 1,000 (very common)

Like what

Informal Top 3,000 (common)

Most formal: For example Most common: For example

	For example	Like what
Pronunciation	🇬🇧 //fə ˈɪɡzɑːmpl// 🇺🇸 //fɔr ˈɛɡzæmpəl//	🇬🇧 //laɪk wɒt// 🇺🇸 //laɪk wɑt//
Meaning	Something you say to give an illustration.	Used to ask for more information or clarification.
Example	Many fruits are rich in vitamins; for example, oranges are high in vitamin C.	I'm working on a project. Like what are you doing specifically?
Register	Neutral	Informal
How common	Top 1,000 (very common)	Top 3,000 (common)
Collocations	provide for example, use for example, give for example, say for example	like what kinds, like what examples, like what activities
Common mistakes	Often omitted in lists of examples where it is needed., Misplaced within sentences, disrupting the flow., Confused with 'such as', which introduces a specific example.	Using it in formal writing., Confusing it with similar phrases like 'such as'., Not following it with an explanation or example.
Usage notes	Use in writing and speaking to clarify or illustrate a point. Avoid in formal contexts where examples are expected without introduction.	"Like what" is commonly used in casual conversations when someone wants examples or details. It can sound abrupt if used in formal situations.

See it in real clips

Take you, for example.

Breaking Bad › S1 E6

For example, when rust collects on the underside of a car, right?

Take you, for example.

Breaking Bad › S1 E6

For example, when rust collects on the underside of a car, right?

For example

House Of Dragons › S1 E1

Like what?

Like what

Frequently asked questions: For example vs Like what

What's the difference between For example and Like what?

For example: Something you say to give an illustration. Like what: Used to ask for more information or clarification.

Which is more formal: For example and Like what?

For example is the most formal of these.

Which is more common: For example and Like what?

For example is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

For example: Many fruits are rich in vitamins; for example, oranges are high in vitamin C. Like what: I'm working on a project. Like what are you doing specifically?

Can I use For example and Like what interchangeably?

Not always. For example and Like what are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.