FOR + GERUND (Functions)

For + Gerund Clause

State the function of things — What is it for?

  What's a tin opener for?; What's money for?;
What are scissors for? What are scissors for?; What's a letter opener for"

1* When we ask:  What is it for?  We focus on the function of the thing. We use "for" followed by a noun or a gerund.

What is an education for?  It's for opening your mind.  (function)

It is for boxes. (noun)
A box cutter is for opening boxes. (gerund)

2* When we ask  What do you use it for?  we focus on the user.  We use an infinitive verb form.

I use boxcutter to open boxes.
I use it in order to open boxes.

I use string to tie up newspapers.
I use string in order to tie up newspapers.



1* When we ask  What is it for?  we focus on the function of the thing. We use for followed by a noun or a gerund.

What is an education for?  It's for opening your mind.  (function)

It is for boxes. (noun)
A box cutter is for opening boxes. (gerund)

2* When we ask  What do you use it for?  we focus on the user.  We use an infinitive verb form.

I use boxcutter to open boxes.
I use it in order to open boxes.