give what for: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "give someone what for" is a phrase commonly used in the English language to describe the act of scolding or reprimanding someone harshly. It is used in informal speech and writing, especially in dialogues, fictional works, and casual conversations. The exact origin of this idiom is uncertain, but there are a few theories that have been proposed.

One theory suggests that the phrase may have originated from the idea of giving someone the punishment or retribution they deserve. The word "give" in this context conveys the act of delivering something, and "what for" implies a punishment or retribution. This theory aligns with the usage of the idiom to describe the act of reprimanding someone severely.

Another possible origin of the idiom relates to the verb "for" used in the sense of "benefit" or "to the advantage of." This theory proposes that "give someone what for" could mean giving someone something that is beneficial or advantageous to them, but in a negative or harmful way. In this context, the idiom implies scolding or reprimanding someone with the intention of benefiting them in the long run.

The idiom "give someone what-for" is a variation of "give someone what for." Both phrases share the same meaning of scolding or reprimanding someone harshly. The addition of the hyphen in "what-for" may serve to emphasize the intensity or severity of the scolding. Both idioms are commonly used in informal contexts, but their usage may vary among different regions and social groups.

When using the idiom "give someone what for" or "give someone what-for," it is important to consider the context and tone of the situation. These idioms are typically used in situations where someone has done something wrong or deserving of criticism. The idiom conveys a sense of strong disapproval and serves as a form of disciplinary action.

For example, imagine a parent scolding their child for breaking a valuable vase. The parent might say, "I'm going to give you what for!" This expression communicates the parent's anger and disappointment, while also serving as a warning to the child about their behavior.

In a similar vein, the idiom "give someone what-for" can also be used in professional or academic settings to describe a situation where someone is being strongly criticized or reprimanded. For instance, a manager might scold an employee for consistently missing deadlines by saying, "I'm going to give you what for if you don't start meeting your targets."

It is important to note that these idioms carry a strong connotation of disapproval and should be used with caution. While they can be effective in conveying the severity of a situation, they can also be seen as confrontational or overly harsh, depending on the context and the relationship between the individuals involved.

The idioms "give someone what for" and "give someone what-for" both describe the act of scolding or reprimanding someone harshly. These idioms can be used in various contexts, including personal, professional, or academic situations. However, their usage should be considered carefully to ensure they are appropriate for the situation and the relationship between the individuals involved.