there for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there for" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to indicate that the following words refer back to something mentioned earlier in the sentence. For example, "I went to the store, but they were out of my favorite chips; there for, I had to buy a different kind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who's there for you?

The New York Times

He's there for us.

The New Yorker

Be there for what?

The New York Times - Arts

They're there for protest".

The New Yorker

"Stuck there for forty years".

The New Yorker

They are there for decoration.

The New Yorker

I was there for comfort.

The New York Times

What are we there for?

The New Yorker

I've been there for him.

The New York Times

"That's what he's there for.

Independent

He's been there for me.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there for" to clearly establish a connection between a person and a purpose or to indicate availability and support. Ensure the context makes the relationship clear.

Common error

Avoid assuming "there for" solely implies physical presence; it often carries a connotation of support, purpose, or availability. If you only mean location, consider using "present" or "located" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there for" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase indicating purpose, support, or availability. Ludwig provides examples illustrating how it connects individuals or objects to specific roles or reasons for existence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there for" is a versatile prepositional phrase indicating purpose, support, or availability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts from News & Media to Wiki and Formal & Business settings. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, "there for" effectively connects individuals, objects, or concepts to their intended functions or the support they provide. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the context makes the relationship clear, avoiding assumptions solely based on physical presence. Consider alternatives like "available for" or "suitable for" to fine-tune your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suitable for

This emphasizes the appropriateness or fitness of something for a particular use or situation.

provided for

This highlights the act of supplying or making something available to meet a need or purpose.

available for

This alternative focuses on availability or suitability for a specific purpose or use.

intended for

This suggests a planned or designed purpose for something.

accessible for

This denotes the ease with which something can be reached or obtained for a specific purpose.

reserved for

This implies that something is kept available for a particular person, group, or purpose.

present for

This implies physical presence or attendance for a particular event or occasion.

designated for

This indicates that something has been officially assigned to a specific purpose or use.

earmarked for

Similar to designated, but often refers to resources or funds specifically set aside.

existing for

This highlights the state of being in existence for a certain reason or duration.

FAQs

How is "there for" used in a sentence?

The phrase "there for" indicates purpose, support, or availability. For example, "He's always "there for" his friends in times of need" shows he provides support.

What are some alternatives to "there for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "available for", "present for", or "suitable for".

What does it mean to say someone is "there for" you?

It means that person is reliable and supportive, ready to help or listen when you need them. The phrase carries a strong connotation of dependability.

Is it correct to use "there for" to describe an object's purpose?

Yes, you can use "there for" to describe an object's purpose. For example, "They are "there for" decoration" indicates the sole purpose of the objects is aesthetic.