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What For

What Does "What For" Mean?

homeidiomsWhat For
"What for" is an English idiom. It means 1. why, or 2. a reprimand or punishment.

Examples in Sentences

Here are examples of the idiom "what for" used in a sentence:
  • 1. You've docked my pay? What for?
  • 1. Ouch! What was that for?
  • 2. You're giving me what for?
  • 2. He's really going to get what for when his parents find out.
meaning for what for

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "What For" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

A Quick Test

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