The phrase "from what" is spelled with a silent "w" in English. In phonetic transcription, it is written as /frʌm wɒt/. The "w" sound is not pronounced and is only used to connect the word "from" with "what" for easier pronunciation. Therefore, when speaking, it should be pronounced as "frum-what". It's important to note the spelling and pronunciation of this phrase to avoid common errors such as misspelling or mispronouncing it as "fromm what".
"From what" is a phrase that commonly functions as an interrogative expression, seeking information about the source or origin of something specified or mentioned. It is used to inquire about the source or cause of a particular event, action, statement, or situation. By using the phrase "from what," individuals seek clarification or further explanation regarding the specific details or circumstances that brought about a given situation.
The phrase "from what" is typically used to indicate a desire for more specific or precise information, rather than a general understanding. It can relate to various aspects, such as the origin, cause, reason, basis, or motivation behind a particular event or decision. In essence, it seeks to uncover the background, context, or foundation from which something arose or occurred.
When employed in a question or statement, "from what" represents an inquiry into the specifics behind a given occurrence, aiming to delve deeper and gain a clearer understanding. It prompts the listener or respondent to provide detailed, explanatory information in response to the query. Through the usage of "from what," individuals seek insights, explanations, or justifications regarding the origins or reasons behind a specific subject or situation.
The phrase "from what" does not have a distinct etymology of its own as it is simply a combination of two common English words. However, we can explore the etymology of each word individually to gain a better understanding.
1. From:
The word "from" comes from the Old English "fram" which means "forward" or "forth". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root "frama" meaning "movement" or "advancement".
2. What:
The word "what" also has its roots in Old English, where it was originally spelled as "hwæt". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hwat" which has the same meaning. "Hwat" can be further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "kʷód" which means "who" or "what".