For Polish learners, distinguishing between "to" and "for" can be challenging since Polish uses different structures. These prepositions express different relationships in English.
| Use "TO" | Use "FOR" |
|---|---|
| Purpose/Goal: I went to the shop to buy milk | Beneficiary: I bought milk for my children |
| Direction: Go to the station | Duration: I waited for 2 hours |
| Recipient: Give this to Anna | Exchange: I paid $20 for this book |
| Time limit: From 9 to 5 | Reason: Famous for its food |
Choose "to" or "for" based on the function in each sentence. Think about whether it shows direction, purpose, or who benefits.
1. Maria went to the pharmacy buy medicine.
2. She bought the medicine her sick mother.
3. Can you give this letter the manager?
4. I'm going Warsaw tomorrow.
5. This present is you.
6. He came here help us with the project.
7. I bought flowers my wife's birthday.
8. We need finish this work today.
9. Send this email all employees.
10. I'm learning English get a better job.
Focus on "for" used with time periods, prices, and reasons, versus "to" in other contexts.
1. I've been waiting 30 minutes.
2. The shop is open from 9 AM 6 PM.
3. How much did you pay that laptop?
4. Kraków is famous its beautiful architecture.
5. I need call my mother.
6. She studied medicine six years.
7. I'm sorry being late.
8. We drove from Gdańsk Wrocław.
9. Thank you helping me yesterday.
10. It's important practice speaking English.
Advanced situations where the choice depends on subtle meaning differences and fixed expressions.
1. This medicine is good headaches.
2. Would you like come with us?
3. I'm looking a new apartment.
4. She's easy talk to.
5. What are you saving money ?
6. I prefer coffee tea.
7. This book belongs my sister.
8. I can't wait see the new movie.
9. She's been absent three days.
10. Listen me carefully.