Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[BMO]

I bought John a watch = I bought a watch for John? (Is this a gift?)

If you are going to Asia, and John gave you $20 to buy a fake Omega watch for him, do you say," I bought an Omega for John?"


My confusion is which is a gift and which is a favor.
Thanks.

[bud]

The context might make it clear. With no context, though, all of your examples would probably lead a listener to think you bought him a gift.

"I bought John's watch for him." This could be a gift (you bought the one he wanted so much that it could be called HIS watch), but in this case, without a context, a listener would likely assume you were doing a favor for him. At least, I would.

[BMO]

Thanks. Got it.

bmo