For
* Purpose/Reason: Indicates the purpose or reason for something.
* *I went to the store for milk.* (Reason: I needed milk)
* *She studied hard for the exam.* (Purpose: to pass the exam)
* Beneficiary: Indicates who something is intended for or given to.
* *This gift is for you.*
* *He bought a toy for his daughter.*
* Duration/Time: Indicates a period of time.
* *I will be gone for two weeks.*
* Exchange: Indicates something given in exchange for something else.
* *I traded my car for a new one.*
To
* Direction/Movement: Indicates movement towards a place or person.
* *I went to the beach.*
* *He gave the book to her.*
* Recipient: Similar to "for" in indicating the recipient of something.
* *I sent a letter to my friend.*
* Infinitive: Used before a verb to form the infinitive.
* *I want to eat.*
* *She is learning to swim.*
* Purpose/Goal: Can be used to indicate a purpose or goal.
* *He went to the store to buy groceries.* (Goal: buy groceries)
Key Differences:
* Direction: "To" usually implies movement, while "for" rarely does.
* Infinitive: "To" is essential for forming infinitives, while "for" never is.
* Beneficiary: Both "for" and "to" can indicate a beneficiary, but "to" often implies a direct recipient, while "for" implies a more general beneficiary.
Examples:
* For: I am working hard for a promotion. (Purpose)
* To: I am going to the park. (Direction)
* For: I baked a cake for my birthday. (Beneficiary)
* To: I gave the cake to my friend. (Recipient)
* To: I want to learn Spanish. (Infinitive)
Understanding these differences will help you use "for" and "to" correctly in your writing and speaking.