for fun

USAGE SUMMARY

"for fun" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe an activity that is done for enjoyment or amusement rather than for a serious or practical purpose. Example: We went to the park for a picnic, but ended up playing frisbee for fun instead.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

'For fun.

The Guardian - Sport

Its only for fun.

The New Yorker

All for fun.

The New Yorker

So much for fun.

The New York Times

Just for fun.

The New York Times

… And just for fun.

The New York Times

her third, for fun.

Independent

Perhaps for fun.

The New Yorker

"I started for fun.

The New York Times

I played for fun".

The New York Times - Sports

And for fun?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the purpose of an activity, ensure the context clearly indicates that it's done for enjoyment. For example, "We play video games "for fun" after work to unwind."

Common error

While "for fun" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal or professional settings. Opt for alternatives like "for recreational purposes" or "for leisure" to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for fun" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the purpose or reason behind an action. It clarifies that something is done for enjoyment or amusement rather than a more serious or practical motive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

32%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

20%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for fun" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that an activity is performed for enjoyment or amusement. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and frequency. While versatile, its informality suggests that you use it with discretion in formal settings. Consider alternatives like "for enjoyment" or "for recreation" to tailor to the appropriate context. Its presence across News & Media and Wiki sources highlights its general use, while its less frequent use in formal business settings underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for enjoyment

Focuses on the positive feeling derived from the activity.

for pleasure

Highlights the satisfying nature of the activity.

for amusement

Emphasizes the lighthearted and entertaining aspect.

for recreation

Suggests a leisure activity done to refresh oneself.

as a hobby

Indicates an activity pursued regularly for personal satisfaction.

in one's free time

Specifies that the activity is done during periods of leisure.

as a pastime

Implies a relaxed and casual activity to fill time.

for kicks

Suggests doing something exciting or daring, often informally.

just messing around

Implies a casual and unplanned activity, often without a specific goal.

for shits and giggles

An informal and often irreverent expression for doing something purely for amusement.

FAQs

How can I use "for fun" in a sentence?

You can use "for fun" to describe activities done purely for enjoyment. For example, "I started painting "for fun" during the lockdown" or "We hike in the mountains "for fun" on weekends".

What are some alternatives to saying "for fun"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "for enjoyment", "for pleasure", "for amusement", or "for recreation" as alternatives to "for fun".

Is it appropriate to use "for fun" in professional writing?

While "for fun" is acceptable in many contexts, it may be too informal for some professional writing. In such cases, consider using more formal alternatives like "for leisure" or "for recreational purposes".

What's the difference between "for fun" and "for entertainment"?

"For fun" generally implies personal enjoyment or amusement, while "for entertainment" often refers to providing amusement or enjoyment to others. You might play a game "for fun", but you might put on a show "for entertainment".