over the years vs for the years

[Spdazero]

can you explain to me the different between 'for the years' and 'over the years'?
thanks.

[Mister Micawber]

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I can't envision a use for 'for the years'. Can you supply some sample sentences?
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Spdazero]

sorry, it's 'for years'.

[Prezbucky]

- For years, Tom watched television. Then he stopped watching television.
- Tom has been watching television for years.

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Instead of using "over the years", let's use "through the years":

- Through the years, you've never let me down.
- I'll stay with you through the years.
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Billie Jean is not my lover. Hee.

[Mister Micawber]

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But if you want, you can use 'over the years' in the same way, Spdazero. The difference, I think, between 'for years' and 'over/through the years' is that the latter emphasizes the duration, a bit like progressive verb aspect does.

I have wanted a new motorcycle for years.
Over/through the years, buying a new motorcycle has always been on my mind.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's