To or For Someone

Which One is Correct?

Both 'to someone' and 'for someone' are correct and can be used but they are used in different contexts and for different purposes.

To Someone

'To someone' is used when we are identifying a person that is affected by or receiving something. Have a look:

Example

He is so rude to her.

I gave some money to him.

For Someone

We can use 'for someone' to show that something is done to the favor and benefit of someone. Have a look:

Example

They bought it for him.

He only smiles for her.

Are They Interchangeable?

'To someone' and 'for someone' are not interchangeable as they convey different meanings. Compare:

Example

I am grateful for my parents.

Here, 'for' means 'because of.'

I am grateful to my parents.

Here, 'to' shows what or who the gratitude is towards.

Comments

(2)

MIchael K.

Feb 2024

It didn't answer the question I had -- would one say "He is a nemesis to Sally" or "He is a nemesis for Sally" - ? Or would neither be correct -- i.e., would one have to use genitive case: "He is her nemesis" - ?

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Langeek

Feb 2024

Both "He is a nemesis to Sally" and "He is a nemesis for Sally" are correct and common. "He is her nemesis" emphasizes Sally's perception of him as her specific nemesis.

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Which One is Correct?
To Someone
For Someone
Are They Interchangeable?

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To vs. Toward

We use prepositions of movement like 'to' and 'toward' to talk about directions and motions. In this lesson we will learn their uses and differences.

To or Too Much

When we want to say that something is more than necessary we use 'to much' or is it 'too much'?

For vs. Since

Both 'for' and 'since' are used to talk about how long an action continues. In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

For vs. Because

'For' and 'because' can be used as conjunctions but what are their differences? In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

For vs. During

We use 'for' and 'during' to indicate time but there are differences between them. In this lesson, we will learn their uses and differences.

With vs. By

'With' and 'by' are prepositions that are used in various cases and have their differences. In this lesson, we will learn their differences and their uses.

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To or For Someone

Which One is Correct?

To Someone

For Someone

Are They Interchangeable?

Comments

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