What are the definitions of “file for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Apply for something legally, like divorce or bankruptcy.
They FILED FOR divorce after two years of marriage.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “file for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb file for is to apply for something legally, such as divorce or bankruptcy. It means to submit the necessary paperwork to start a legal process.
What are the different verb forms of “file for”?
| Root Verb | file for |
| Third Person Singular Present | files for |
| Present Participle | filing for |
| Simple Past | filed for |
| Past Participle | filed for |
Example
She decided to file for bankruptcy to get a fresh start.
Example
He files for a patent to protect his invention.
Example
They are filing for divorce after many years of marriage.
Example
Last year, the company filed for bankruptcy protection.
Example
She had filed for a restraining order against her ex-husband.
What kind of phrasal verb is “file 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.)
Transitive verb
“file for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
They filed for divorce after two years of marriage.
Example
The company filed for bankruptcy protection.
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
“file 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
They filed for divorce after two years of marriage.
Example
The company filed for bankruptcy protection.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “file for”?
Apply for financial assistance from the government when someone loses their job.
Example
After losing his job, he had to file for unemployment benefits.
Good things to know
Does “file for” have an informal or formal tone?
File for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in legal and official situations, such as court proceedings or government applications. However, it can also be used in everyday conversations when discussing legal matters.
