do for
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see do, for.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
What can I do for you?
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To doom; to bring about the demise of someone; to injure or harm someone.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To prosecute someone for a criminal offence.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “do for” mean?
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see do, for.
Is “do for” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.