Middle English Dictionary Entry

for-whī pronominal adv. & conj.
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Entry Info

Forms for-whī pronominal adv. & conj. Also for whi, forwy, forqui.
Etymology OE for-hwī.

Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)

1.
(a) In a question: for what reason, for what cause, why; (b) as noun: the reason why.
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2.
In (a) an object clause or (b) a subject clause: for what reason, why.
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3.
In a relative clause: on account of which.
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4.
In a clause which explains, amplifies, cites an example, quotes an authority, etc.: inasmuch as, since, for.
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5.
In a clause giving the reason or cause: for the reason that, because.
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6.
In a clause of result, consequence, or inference (often loosely joined to a preceding statement): for which reason, wherefore; therefore.
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7.
In a clause of purpose: in order that, so that.
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8.
~ and, ~ that, on condition that, provided that, if.
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