for what?/what for?

[GUEST2008]

Hi

Do these two mean the same?

Thanks

[chihuahuab]

personally I prefer ''what for''
as it is more appropriate for a short question.
e.g. A: Im going out . B: Where to? (where are u going to?)

[sarat_106]

Originally Posted by GUEST2008

Hi

Do these two mean the same?

Thanks

No, the meaning and use are different.
For what is used as a conjunction to link (two expressions) a consequence with cause, as:
You pay for what you use.
Be thankful for what you got
On the other hand what for is an idiom meaning : Why?
What are you doing that for? Or What for are you doing that?