The spelling of the phrase "whats what" is fairly straightforward. The first word, "whats," is a contraction of "what is." It is pronounced with a glottal stop between the "t" and the "s," and the vowel sound is a schwa, represented in IPA as /wʌts/. The second word, "what," is pronounced with the "w" sound at the beginning, and the vowel sound is also a schwa, represented in IPA as /wɒt/. Together, they form the phrase "whats what," which means to understand or be knowledgeable about something.
"Whats what" is an idiomatic expression that can be used as a noun phrase or a verb phrase depending on the context. As a noun phrase, it refers to the knowledge, understanding, or essential facts about a particular subject or situation. It encapsulates the bit of information or insight that is necessary to comprehend or make sense of a matter. It implies being well-informed or knowledgeable about the relevant details, often suggesting a sound grasp of the situation or subject at hand. The phrase can be used to depict the overall understanding or proficiency in a specific field, indicating a level of expertise or deep familiarity.
As a verb phrase, "whats what" means the act of explaining or clarifying something to someone, especially in a straightforward and concise manner. It involves imparting knowledge or revealing crucial information, bringing clarity or understanding to a person who might be confused or unsure. It can also denote a demonstration of one's mastery or expertise in a particular domain, showcasing a clear understanding or competence in a specific area.
In summary, "whats what" denotes both the notion of possessing knowledge or understanding about a subject or situation, as well as the act of explaining or clarifying that knowledge to others. It signifies being well-versed in a particular field of expertise and the ability to communicate essential information effectively.
The phrase "what's what" is believed to have originated in the late 16th century in England. It is a combination of the interrogative pronoun "what" and the noun "what", which means "the true nature of something" or "the real deal". The repetition of "what" in this phrase adds emphasis.
The exact etymology of the word "what" traces back to Old English, where it was spelled "hwæt". This word has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages. Throughout history, "what" has taken on various forms, but its essential meaning has remained consistent.
Over time, the phrase "what's what" has evolved to convey the idea of having knowledge, information, or understanding about a specific subject, especially in contexts where expertise or experience is valued.