for exactly what

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for exactly what" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when seeking clarification or specificity about a particular situation or request. Example: "I need to understand for exactly what purpose you are asking for this information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"I was hoping for exactly what happened," Bironas said.

The New York Times - Sports

People get paid for exactly what they do.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We sued for exactly what he's giving us today".

The New York Times

They weren't prepared for exactly what that meant.

The Guardian - Business

On the contrary, he loves his wife for exactly what she is.

The New Yorker

And he has just spent weeks campaigning for exactly what the Occupiers are demanding.

The New Yorker

"I was going to shoot for exactly what I wanted," Miss Rose said.

The New York Times

I have to pay $19 more a month for exactly what I have now?

The New York Times

I wish the TV companies would let me pay for exactly what I want to watch.

The Guardian - Sport

"Our proposed capital plan provides a blueprint for exactly what needs to be done".

The New York Times

"It seemed insane to be paying so much more for exactly what we had or smaller".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for exactly what", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are seeking clarification, stating a purpose, or emphasizing a precise detail. This phrase is most effective when precision is key.

Common error

Avoid using "for exactly what" in overly casual conversations where simpler phrases like "why" or "what for" would suffice. Using it in informal settings can sometimes sound overly formal or even interrogative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for exactly what" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a clause or question seeking specific clarification or purpose. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in demanding precise details.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for exactly what" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that prompts detailed clarification or purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English and across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and formal business settings, it seeks precise explanations and avoids ambiguity. While "for exactly what" maintains a neutral to formal tone, simpler alternatives might suit casual conversations. Remember to use this phrase when you need a clear and specific understanding of the underlying reasons or intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for what precise reason

Emphasizes the need for a specific and accurate explanation.

for what specific purpose

Highlights the particular aim or intention behind something.

for what particular aim

Highlights a certain goal.

for which exact reason

Focuses on identifying the accurate cause or justification.

for what definite purpose

Stresses the purpose needs to be clearly defined.

for what actual cause

Stresses the real or genuine reason behind an action or event.

for what accurate account

Emphasizes the need for a correct and truthful explanation.

for just what reason

Emphasizes the reason with a touch of skepticism or inquiry.

specifying the exact reason for

A more verbose alternative that focuses on detailing the cause.

detailing the specific purpose for

Highlights the need for a detailed explanation of the aim.

FAQs

How can I use "for exactly what" in a sentence?

You can use "for exactly what" to ask for clarification or specification about a purpose, reason, or requirement. For instance, "I need to know "for exactly what" purpose this data will be used."

What are some alternatives to "for exactly what"?

Alternatives include "for what reason", "for what purpose", or "what specifically". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "for exactly what" formal or informal?

"For exactly what" is generally considered neutral to formal. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound overly formal in very casual conversations. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in informal settings.

What's the difference between "for what" and "for exactly what"?

While both phrases inquire about a reason or purpose, ""for exactly what"" implies a need for more precision and detail than a simple "for what". It emphasizes that the speaker requires a clear and specific explanation.