Cool MateMeaning of What for
A phrase used to ask about the purpose of something.
In simple words: A phrase asking about the purpose of something.
What for in a sentence
- I forgot my umbrella; what for is it raining anyway?
- You bought dinner, but what for if everyone is full?
- We're doing all this work, but what for?
- She asked what for I needed the extra paper.
- He keeps practicing his guitar, but what for if he doesn’t enjoy it?
How to use What for
Used in casual conversation to inquire about reasons or purposes. It's not usually used in formal writing.
Grammar pattern
standalone question
Memory hint
Think of a person shrugging and asking, 'What for?' when confused about a situation.
Related words
Collocations with What for
- ask what for
- wonder what for
- what for this
- say what for
- know what for
Synonyms for What for
- why
- for what reason
- what's the purpose
- what's the point
- what's the use
Common mistakes with What for
- Confused with 'what is for' which is less common.
- Used in formal contexts, which can sound awkward.
- Omitted the subject, making the question unclear.
What for appears in
What for in other languages
More chunks like What for
- It is what it is
A phrase used to express acceptance of a situation without trying to change it.
- I know what this is
A phrase expressing certainty about the identity or nature of something.
- Have you seen this
A question asking someone if they have previously looked at or noticed something.
- I've seen one before
To indicate familiarity with something previously encountered.
- It belonged to a man
Indicates possession, signifying that something is owned by a male person.
- RadicalC1
Relating to the fundamental nature or extreme measures of change.
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Frequently asked questions about What for
What does What for mean?
A phrase asking about the purpose of something.
What is the definition of What for?
A phrase used to ask about the purpose of something.
How do you use What for in a sentence?
I forgot my umbrella; what for is it raining anyway?
Can you give another example of What for?
You bought dinner, but what for if everyone is full?
What are synonyms for What for?
Common alternatives include why, for what reason, what's the purpose, what's the point, what's the use.
What words go with What for?
It commonly pairs with ask what for, wonder what for, what for this, say what for, know what for.
What are common mistakes when using What for?
Confused with 'what is for' which is less common. Used in formal contexts, which can sound awkward. Omitted the subject, making the question unclear.
How do you pronounce What for?
US: //wɑt fɔr//, UK: //wɒt fɔː//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
Is What for formal or informal?
"What for" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.
When should I use What for?
Used in casual conversation to inquire about reasons or purposes. It's not usually used in formal writing.