WHY Meaning and
Definition
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Why is an interrogative adverb typically used to inquire about the reason, cause, purpose, or motivation behind a certain action, event, or circumstance. It seeks an explanation or justification for something that is not immediately apparent or understood. The word "why" is often employed to elicit further information or clarification regarding the specific rationality or intention behind someone's behavior or decision.
In many contexts, "why" allows a person to explore deeper into the underlying causes or motives, enabling them to gain insight and understanding. It is a versatile term that can be utilized in various situations, such as questioning the purpose of an action, seeking the reasons for a belief or opinion, or investigating the motivations behind a particular outcome.
The usage of "why" often implies a desire to uncover facts, logic, or emotions that contribute to a particular situation, with the intention of providing a comprehensive explanation or answer. It prompts individuals to think critically and reflect upon their choices, behaviors, and beliefs. By asking "why," people can engage in thoughtful analysis, open up dialogues, and enhance communication, as it fosters a deeper exploration into the reasons that shape our lives and actions.
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For which or for what reason or cause; wherefore; used emphatically, as, "why, no-the day had broke before we parted"; used as a substantive, as, "we examine the why of things.".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WHY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WHY
Etymology of WHY
The word "why" has a Middle English origin and can be traced back to the Old English word "hwȳ". This Old English word, in turn, evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "hwī", meaning "for what reason". The root of "hwī" is further derived from the Proto-Indo-European word "*kʷis", which signifies "who, what". The word has retained its basic meaning of questioning the reason or cause behind something.
Idioms with the word WHY
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I don't know how, what, why, etc.
The idiom "I don't know how, what, why, etc." is used to express a lack of understanding, knowledge, or awareness regarding a specific situation, topic, or action. It denotes a sense of uncertainty or confusion about something.
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What/Why/Who etc. the (blue) blazes
The idiom "What/Why/Who etc. the (blue) blazes?" is an exclamation used to express surprise, frustration, or confusion about something or someone. It is often used in a rhetorical manner to emphasize astonishment or disbelief. The addition of "blue" serves to intensify the expression, but it is not necessary for the meaning of the idiom.
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how, what, why, etc. on earth...
The idiom "how, what, why, etc. on earth..." is used to express confusion, surprise, or disbelief about something. It implies that the situation or information being referred to is difficult to understand or explain. It is often used when the speaker is emphasizing their astonishment or disbelief.
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why ever...?
The idiom "why ever...?" is used to express surprise, confusion, or disbelief about something. It often indicates perplexity or disbelief towards a particular course of action, choice, or decision. It is commonly used rhetorically to emphasize one's astonishment or to question the reasoning behind a certain action.
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why not...?
The idiom "why not...?" is a rhetorical question used to suggest or encourage someone to do something, emphasizing the lack of any good reason not to do it. It implies that the suggested action is worth trying without any apparent drawbacks or consequences.
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that's why
The idiom "that's why" is not a stand-alone expression but rather a phrase used to explain or give a reason for something that has just been mentioned or observed. It is often used to link cause and effect, emphasizing that the reason mentioned is the cause or explanation for the preceding statement or situation.
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what/where/how/why the devil
The idiom "what/where/how/why the devil" is commonly used as an interjection expressing surprise, confusion, or annoyance. It is often used rhetorically to emphasize the speaker's feelings about a particular situation. The phrase can be seen as a milder substitute for stronger exclamations involving strong language or religious references.
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why on earth
The idiom "why on earth" is an expression used to convey surprise, disbelief, or confusion about a particular situation or decision. It typically emphasizes the speaker's astonishment or bewilderment, suggesting that the described action or circumstance is irrational or difficult to comprehend.
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no matter what, when, why, etc.
The idiom "no matter what, when, why, etc." is used to emphasize that something will happen or be done regardless of any circumstances, conditions, or reasons mentioned. It indicates a strong determination or commitment to carry out a particular action regardless of any obstacles or challenges.
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why in God's name
The idiom "why in God's name" is used to express surprise, disbelief, or frustration when questioning someone's actions, decisions, or statements. It is typically used to emphasize the speaker's confusion or exasperation.
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why keep a dog and bark yourself?
The idiom "why keep a dog and bark yourself?" means why do something yourself when you already have someone else to do it for you. It suggests that it is pointless or unnecessary to do a task or take on a responsibility if you already have someone else capable of doing it for you.
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what, how, why, etc. in the world
The idiom "what, how, why, etc. in the world" is used to express a sense of intense surprise, disbelief, or astonishment towards a particular situation or event. It often emphasizes the speaker's confusion or frustration, highlighting the unexpected or inexplicable nature of the subject being discussed. This idiom is commonly used to convey a strong emotional reaction when encountering something that is difficult to comprehend or comprehend the reasons behind it.
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why don't you...?
The idiom "why don't you…?" is a phrase used to suggest, propose, or recommend a particular action or solution to someone. It is typically used when offering advice, making a helpful suggestion, or urging someone to take a certain course of action.
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Why break the habit of a lifetime?
The idiom "Why break the habit of a lifetime?" means questioning the need to change or deviate from a long-established pattern or behavior, especially when it has become deeply ingrained or habitual. It emphasizes the resistance or reluctance to trying something new or different, suggesting that maintaining consistency is more comfortable or preferable.
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Why buy a cow when you can get milk for free?
The idiom "Why buy a cow when you can get milk for free?" essentially means that there is no need to purchase or commit to something when you can enjoy the benefits or services of it without any cost or commitment. It suggests that there is no incentive to acquire or invest in something when you can receive it easily without any additional effort or obligation.
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Lord (only) knows (what, where, why, etc.)…
The phrase "Lord (only) knows (what, where, why, etc.)…" is an idiom used to express uncertainty or confusion about a situation. It implies that only a higher power or authority knows the true answer or reason for something.
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how, why, where, who, etc. on earth
The phrase "how, why, where, who, etc. on earth" is used as an exclamation to show surprise, disbelief, or confusion about something. It is often used to emphasize the speaker's astonishment or to express a strong sense of wonder or incredulity.
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no matter what/when/where/why/who/how
The idiom "no matter what/when/where/why/who/how" is used to emphasize that something will happen or is true under any circumstances or conditions. It implies that something is universal or unconditional.
Similar spelling words for WHY
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