Phrasal verbs "go for" vs "go to"

Differences between go for and go to

Go for usually means to choose or select something, or to try to achieve something. On the other hand, go to generally means to travel to a specific place or location.

Meanings and Definitions: go for vs go to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Go for

  • 1Attack.

    The neighbour's dog WENT FOR the postman and bit him.

  • 2Be attracted to.

    She tends to GO FOR guys like him.

  • 3Choose, select.

    I'll GO FOR the soup of the day, followed by the duck.

  • 4Try to get.

    The player WENT FOR the ball but missed.

  • 5Have something favourable.

    The play didn't have much GOING FOR IT and we left halfway through.

  • 6Pass for or serve as.

    It's a couch that also GOES FOR a bed.

Go to

  • 1Allocate money.

    About half of my income GOES TO pay the mortgage.

Usage Examples: go for, go to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

go for

Example

I will go for the blue dress for the party.

Example

She always goes for the vegetarian option at restaurants.

go to

Example

A large portion of my salary goes to paying bills.

Example

A significant part of his income goes to rent.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go for

To choose or select a particular option or choice.

Example

I think I'll opt for the vegetarian option at the restaurant tonight.

To set a goal or target and work towards achieving it.

Example

She's aiming for a promotion at work by the end of the year.

To attempt to achieve or obtain something.

Example

He's going to try for a perfect score on his next exam.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go to

To journey to a specific place or location.

Example

We're planning to travel to Europe next summer for vacation.

head to

To move or travel towards a particular destination.

Example

I need to head to the grocery store to pick up some food for dinner.

make one's way to

To travel or move towards a specific place or location.

Example

After finishing work, she made her way to the gym for a workout.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “go”

Phrasal Verbs with “for”

Phrasal Verbs with “to”

Differences in go for vs go to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: go for or go to?

In daily conversation, people use go to more often than go for. This is because go to is used for more common activities such as going to work, school, or a friend's house. Go for is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about making a choice or attempting to do something. So, while both phrases are used, go to is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go for and go to

Go for and go to are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of go for and go to

The tone of go for and go to can differ based on context. Go for often carries an enthusiastic or determined tone when related to making a choice or attempting to do something, while go to typically has a neutral or practical tone, especially when referring to traveling to a specific place or location.

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