What are the definitions of “bargain for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Expect something to happen ( usually negative ).
I hadn't BARGAINED FOR so many people coming.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bargain for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bargain for is to expect something to happen, usually a negative event or situation. It means that you did not anticipate or plan for a particular outcome.
What are the different verb forms of “bargain for”?
| Root Verb | bargain for |
| Third Person Singular Present | bargains for |
| Present Participle | bargaining for |
| Simple Past | bargained for |
| Past Participle | bargained for |
Example
I didn't bargain for the traffic being so bad.
Example
She never bargains for the weather being so unpredictable.
Example
He is bargaining for a difficult time at work this week.
Example
They bargained for a quiet vacation, but the hotel was very noisy.
Example
The project was more challenging than we had bargained for.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bargain for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bargain for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
I didn't bargain for the rain when I planned the picnic.
Example
She didn't bargain for the long lines at the store.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bargain for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I didn't bargain for the rain when I planned the picnic.
Example
She didn't bargain for the long lines at the store.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bargain for”?
Good things to know
Does “bargain for” have an informal or formal tone?
Bargain for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
