use of to and for

[Anonymous]

when do you use to and when do you use for. example: to me or for me.

 

[RonBee]

They certainly are used differently. If you do something to me you are probably doing me harm in some fashion. If you do something for me you are helping me in some way.

There are other differences, which Caseopia will point out.

:wink:

 

[eric2004]

sir, i know Rachel and Ron is a couple in "FRIENDS". did you see that ?
it's very popular among chinese english learners.

 

[Casiopea]

when do you use to and when do you use for. example: to me or for me.

to = in the direction of (the person, place, or thing)
for= in the benefit of (the person, place, or thing)

Example, send a fax

A: Could you send the documents to me?
B: I'll send the documents to you by fax.
(I will send the documents in your direction. They travel to you.)

B: I don't know how to use the fax machine!
C: I'll send the documents for you.
(I will send the documents on your behalf. I will do it for you.)

 

[RonBee]

sir, i know Rachel and Ron is a couple in "FRIENDS". did you see that ?
it's very popular among chinese english learners.

Does Rachel do things for Ron?

 

[RonBee]

• A: I need to send a fax, but I don't know how to use the fax machine.
  B: Okay, I'll do it for you this time, but after that no more help.
  A: Don't do that to me!

:wink: