what for

From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Jump to navigation Jump to search

English

[edit]

Alternative forms

[edit]

Pronunciation

[edit]

Adverb

[edit]

what for (not comparable)

  1. For what purpose.
    What is this tool for?
    That's what friends are for.
  2. (colloquial) For what reason; why.
    He wants four copies of it? What for?
    Ow! What did you do that for?
    What do you want to know for?

Translations

[edit]

Noun

[edit]

what for (plural what fors)

  1. (idiomatic, colloquial, usually with "give someone") An unspecified punishment or rebuke.
    When your dad gets home, he'll give you (a) what for.
    • 1968, Oliver!, 01:12:40:
      - Fagin, I'm waiting.
      - Waiting, my dear? What for?
      - Bill will give you "what for" if you don't fork out.
    • 2010, Retro Studios, Donkey Kong Country Returns, Nintendo, Wii, level/area: Cranky Kong's shop:
      Cranky Kong: 'NOW GET OUT THERE AND GIVE THOSE LITTLE DRUM GUYS WHAT FOR. YES, I SAID "WHAT FOR." I'M OLD. GET OVER IT.'

Translations

[edit]