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Phrase Meanings » do for
What does "do for" mean?
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Bring about the death, defeat, or ruin of, as in He swore he'd do for him. This usage is often put in the passive voice (see done for). [First half of 1700s]
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Care or provide for, take care of, as in They decided to hire a housekeeper to do for Grandmother. This usage today is more common in Britain than in America. [Early 1500s]
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