Phrasal verb
cover for
Meanings
to do someone’s job or take their shift temporarily because they are absent
to protect someone by giving an excuse or hiding their mistake or absence
Definition
To cover for someone means to do their work or pretend they are present so they don’t get in trouble.
When you cover for someone, you temporarily take their place or handle their responsibilities because they are absent or unable to do it. It can also mean you give an excuse or hide the truth to protect them from blame. This phrasal verb is common at work, school, or in everyday situations where someone needs help staying out of trouble.
Examples
- I can cover for you while you step out for a quick appointment.
- She covered for her coworker when he got stuck in traffic.
- They asked me to cover for them at the front desk during lunch.
- Could you cover for me if my manager calls while I’m in a meeting?
Common mistake
Learners often say "cover someone" when they mean "cover for someone" (taking their place or making an excuse).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.