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                        1
                           general:: 
                           Phrase(s): *what for  1. Fig. a scolding; a stern lecture. (*Typically: get ~; give someone ~.)  •  Billy’s mother gave him what for because he didn’t get home on time.  •  I will really give you what for if you don’t straighten up. 2. Why?; For what reason?  •  Father: "I want you to clean your room." Child: "What for? It’s clean enough."  •  What did you do that for?
                           
                           
                           
                           
                        
    
                       
                    
                        
                        
                        
                    
 
                    
                        McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
                    
                    
                    
                        2
                           general:: 
                           1. For what purpose or reason, why, as in I know you're going to England, but what for? [Mid-1700s] 2. A punishment or scolding, as in You'll get what for from Mom if she catches you smoking, or The teacher really gave Bud what for. [Colloquial; second half of 1800s]
                           
                           
                           
                           
                        
    
                       
                    
                        
                        
                        
                    
 
                    
                        American Heritage Idioms