Welcome to ESL Printables, the website where English Language teachers exchange resources: worksheets, lesson plans,  activities, etc.
Our collection is growing every day with the help of many teachers. If you want to download you have to send your own contributions.
 


 
 

 

ESL Forum:

Techniques and methods in Language Teaching

Games, activities and teaching ideas

Grammar and Linguistics

Teaching material

Concerning worksheets

Concerning powerpoints

Concerning online exercises

Make suggestions, report errors

Ask for help

Message board

 

ESL forum > Ask for help > to me vs. for me    

to me vs. for me



Weronika_1988
Poland

to me vs. for me
 
Hello!
I`ve got a question whether there is any explanation or any difference between using `sth is ... to me` and
`sth is ... for me`
 since translation is the same in some cases.
For example,
Here is a letter FOR you.
but
The exam is very important TO me.
Thanks for help :) have a nice day

8 Nov 2011      





Apodo
Australia

Here is the way I use these words:
 
There is a subtle difference in meaning and usage.
This letter/book/ flower is for you. (A general statement - it �s for you and I �m giving it to you)
This letter is to you. (The letter specifically has your name and address on it)
 
Your second sentence is common usage: for me doesn �t sound as natural
This exam is important to me. 
 
To use for me I�d say:-
It is important for me to pass this exam.
 
It is important to me to pass this exam. (this is also OK)
 
Thank you. Your help meant a lot to me.  ( for me can �t be used here)
 

8 Nov 2011     



Pretty3
Saudi Arabia

Apodo
Australia 
Thanks a lot for your simple explanation. 

8 Nov 2011     



douglas
United States

 "to me" is intrinsic
 
 "for me" is extrinsic

8 Nov 2011     



Weronika_1988
Poland

Thanks now I`m wiser :)

8 Nov 2011