She had shrunk for him

shootingstar

Member
Joined
Nov 17, 2022
Member Type
Student or Learner
Native Language
German
Home Country
Germany
Current Location
Germany
'Are you happy, Dan?'
'No one's happy, Nora.'
'Some people are. You used to be. You used to light up when you talked about this. You know, the pub. Before you had it. This is the life you dreamed of. You wanted me and you wanted this and yet you've been unfaithful and you drink like a fish and I think you only appreciate me when you don't have me, which is not a great trait to have. What about my dreams?'
He was hardly listening. Or trying to look like he wasn't.
'Big fires in California,' he said, almost to himself.
'Well, at least we're not there.'
He put the phone down. Folded the laptop. 'You coming to bed or what?'
She had shrunk for him, but he still hadn't found the space he needed.
(The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, episode The Three Horseshoes)

What does "for" mean in this context? Does it mean "for the sake of him" or does it mean "owing to his character and bad behavior"?
 
Last edited:
She did not occupy as big/important a place in his estimation/affection as she had previously. So 'for him' in this context means 'as he regarded her'.
 

Ask a Teacher

If you have a question about the English language and would like to ask one of our many English teachers and language experts, please click the button below to let us know:

(Requires Registration)
Back
Top