English Reference

Phrasal verb

enter for

Definition

phrasal verb. to sign up for a competition or an exam so that you can take part in it.

phrasal verb. to register a name for a competition, examination, or contest; typically transitive and often used in the context of formal assessments or sporting events.

Examples

“I want to enter for the marathon this year.”

“The school decided to enter all its top students for the national math competition to boost its reputation.”

“Despite her initial hesitation regarding the rigorous syllabus, she eventually decided to enter for the advanced diploma in architectural history.”

Examples

simple

“I want to enter for the marathon this year.”

contextual

“The school decided to enter all its top students for the national math competition to boost its reputation.”

complex

“Despite her initial hesitation regarding the rigorous syllabus, she eventually decided to enter for the advanced diploma in architectural history.”

Usage

commonly used with exams, races, or formal competitions as the object.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'enter' (to go inside); 'enter for' specifically implies the act of registration or application for a challenge.

Pitfall

He entered to the race.

He entered for the race.

the preposition 'for' is required when the object is a competition or exam you intend to participate in.

Phrasal verb

Particles

for

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

enter + for + object

Synonyms

sign up forapply forregister forenroll in

Antonyms

withdraw fromdrop out of

Grammar

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference