The spelling of the phrase "what ups" is actually a variation of the slang term "what's up". In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /wʌt ʌps/. The first word "what" is pronounced with an unstressed "u" sound followed by a stressed "a" sound. The second word "ups" is pronounced with a stressed "u" sound followed by an unstressed "p" and "s" sound. The slang term is commonly used as a greeting to ask how someone is doing or what is happening in their life.
There is no specific definition for the phrase "what ups" in standard English dictionaries, as it seems to be a colloquial or informal expression. However, it is likely derived from the commonly used slang term "what's up," which is an informal greeting and inquiry about someone's well-being or current situation.
"What's up" is a casual way of asking someone how they are or what they have been doing recently. It is often used as a conversation opener or a way to show interest in another person’s life. The phrase can also be used as a general greeting or a way to acknowledge someone's presence.
Similarly, "what ups" appears to be a more abbreviated or unique form of "what's up." It could be used in the same way as the longer phrase, implying a casual inquiry about someone's current state or activities. However, the exact meaning and usage may vary based on context and the specific intention of the speaker.
As a slang phrase, "what ups" is more likely to be used in informal conversations, texting, or social media interactions rather than in formal or professional settings. It may also be influenced by regional dialects or individual styles of speaking.
The phrase "what ups" is a colloquial variant of "what's up" or "what is up". "What's up" originated as an American English slang phrase in the 19th century. The term "up" in this context refers to the current situation or state of affairs. The word "what" is used as an interrogative pronoun to inquire about the situation or ask for information. Over time, "what's up" has evolved into "what ups" as a more informal and shortened version commonly used in casual conversations, particularly among younger generations.