what for
For what reason; why? Often used alone as a question.
I told Mary what I was going to town for.
What are you running for?
Billy's mother told him to wear his hat. "What for?" he asked.
A scolding, or other punishment. Usually used with get or give.
Tom got what for from his father for answering him rudely, and I heard him crying in the house.
The teacher gave me what for because I was late.
what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander
What goes for the one, also goes for the other. A proverb.
If Herb gets a speeding ticket, so should Erica, who was right behind him; after all, what's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.
whistle for
To try to get (something) but fail; look for (something) that will not come.
Mary didn't even thank us for helping her, so the next time she needs help she can whistle for it.
why and wherefore
The answer to a question or problem. Usually used in the plural.
Father told him not to always ask the whys and wherefores when he was told to do something.
word for word
In exactly the same words.
Mary copied Sally's composition word for word.
Joan repeated the conversation word for word.
She learned the poem many years ago but she recited it word for word.
worse for wear
Not as good as new; worn out; damaged by use. Used with the. Often used with none to mean: as good as new.
Her favorite tablecloth was beginning to look the worse for wear.
The doll was Mary's favorite toy but it was none the worse for wear.