How should I correctly name: poison for mice or poison from mice? - briefly
The proper term is “mouse poison” (or “poison for mice”), not “poison from mice.” It refers to a toxic substance intended to kill mice.
How should I correctly name: poison for mice or poison from mice? - in detail
When describing a substance intended to eliminate rodents, the preposition that follows “poison” determines the relationship between the product and the target.
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Poison for mice – indicates purpose. The phrase means a toxic preparation designed to be used against mice. It matches the pattern “X for Y,” where X is the item and Y is the intended recipient or application.
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Poison from mice – suggests origin. This construction would be interpreted as a toxin that originates from mice, not a compound meant to kill them. It is unsuitable for naming a rodent‑control product because it conveys the opposite meaning.
Therefore, the correct label for a rodent‑killing formulation is “poison for mice.” This choice aligns with standard English usage, where “for” links a tool or substance to its intended function, while “from” links it to its source.
Key points to remember
- Use “for” to denote purpose (e.g., “antidote for snakes,” “vaccine for children”).
- Reserve “from” for indicating provenance (e.g., “oil from olives,” “fibers from cotton”).
- In product naming, clarity about intended use is paramount; the preposition must reflect that intent.
Applying these rules eliminates ambiguity and ensures that consumers, retailers, and regulatory bodies correctly understand the product’s function.