What’s the Difference between TO and FOR?

Motive/Reason (with verb)

• I went to the store to buy milk.

What time it is

• It was a quarter to six when I left.

Destination

• I shall go to London next month.

Distance

• It’s about ten kilometers from my house to my school.

Comparing

• I prefer this dress to the one you were wearing yesterday.

Giving

• He gave the pen to his friend.

Motive/Reason (with noun)      

• I went to the store for milk.

Period of time

• The couple took the house for 2 years.

Benefits

• A win is always good for morale.

Function – with verb (-ing form)

• She had a special talent for learning languages.

Agree with

• Are you for or against his idea?

Doing something to help someone

• Could you carry my case for me?