Learn English – Difference between “Do something to somebody” and “Do something for somebody.

prepositions

Can someone please explain the difference between "Do something to somebody" and "Do something for somebody."
it seems to me that to do something to somebody carries a negative meaning, while to do something for someone always means something positive.
Appreciate all comments.

Best Answer

Doing something 'to' somebody would imply that something was done to them directly, whereas to do something 'for' somebody would be on their behalf.

Example: To: I hit Matthew. For: I sent a birthday card to Matthew's mother from the both of us.