1. Using Prepositions in the English Language
proper use of “for”

2. Definition with the object or purpose of: to run for exercise.
For – preposition
with the object or purpose of: to run for exercise.
intended to belong to, or be used in connection with: equipment for the army; a closet for dishes.
suiting the purposes or needs of: medicine for the aged.
in order to obtain, gain, or acquire: to work for wages.
(used to express a wish, as of something to be experienced or obtained): Oh, for a cold drink!
Source: dictionary.com

3. Common Uses Duration We drove for an hour.
State/Condition I mistook you for someone else.
Quantity/Measure I bought it for a dollar. I ran for three miles.
Purpose I keep it for emergencies. I went there for school.
Source: Hunter College Reading/Writing Center

4. Common Phrases
account for To take into consideration He didn’t account for the bad weather.
apply for To make a request I applied for a job.
ask for To request something She asked for a new computer.

5. Common Phrases (continued)
blame (someone) for (something) To place responsibility He blamed the dog for spilling his drink.
care for To have affection He cared for his family. To protect or oversee The doctor cared for her patient.

6. Common Phrases (continued)
have respect for To admire He had respect for his grandfather.
listen for To pay attention She listened for sounds of car trouble.
look for To search, seek, or pay attention He looked for his keys. He looked for traffic before crossing the street.

7. Common Phrases (continued)
provide for To make arrangements The driving directions provided for detours. To supply or support They provided for their family.
search for To seek She searched for a better job. He searched for the book he lost.

8. Common Phrases (continued)
substitute for To exchange one thing for another The recipe allowed them to substitute one ingredient for another. To act in place of something Tofu is no substitute for steak.

9. Common Phrases (continued)
wait for To be inactive until something happens She waited for the bus. To look forward to something I’m waiting for the baseball season to start. To be available Our reserved table was waiting for us.