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Definition whatever in British English

whatever adverb, conjunction, determiner, pronoun

adverb, conjunction, determiner, pronoun
/wɒtˈevə(r)/

Whatever can be used in the following ways:

as a relative pronoun (starting a relative clause that is the subject, object, or complement of another clause): You can choose whatever you like.

as a determiner (followed by a noun and introducing a relative clause): We’ll be ready at whatever time you get here.

as a question pronoun (starting a question): Whatever do you mean?

as a conjunction (connecting two clauses): We must stay together whatever happens.

as an adverb (after a noun or pronoun in a negative sentence): There is nothing whatever to worry about.

1

used for referring to anything or everything that happens or is available, needed, wanted etc

Example

Now you are free to do whatever you want.

Example

We shall be grateful for whatever help you can give us.

Example

Whatever project he works on is always successful.

Example

Whatever happened between Julius and me is none of your business.

Example

Pack some clothes and whatever else you need for the journey.

2

used for saying that what happens or what is true is not important, because it makes no difference to the situation

2.1

used for saying that what happens or what is true is not important, because it makes no difference to the situation

Example

You know that you have our full support whatever you decide.

Example

Whatever happens in the these elections, things will never be the same again.

Example

Any business, whatever its size, can benefit from a management training programme.

Example

If you are unable to find work, for whatever reason, our advisers will be there to help you.

Synonyms and related words
whatever anyhow anyway
2.2

used for saying that you do not mind which thing is chosen

Example

'What can I offer you? Coffee, tea, lemonade?' 'Oh, I don't mind. Whatever.'

3

used for emphasizing 'what' in a question to show that you are surprised, interested, upset, or annoyed

Example

Whatever are you doing indoors on such a lovely day?

Example

What ever happened to that artist friend of yours?

Example

Whatever shall I do without you?

Example

And now they have birthday cards that play a tune! Whatever next?

Synonyms and related words
whatever whenever whoever
4

used with a noun for emphasis in a negative statement

Example

I have no intention whatever of leaving.

5

used for saying in an annoyed way that you will not try to change what someone thinks, says, or does, even though you do not agree with it

Example

'They say we all have to come in for the meeting on Saturday.' 'Whatever.'

Synonyms and related words
whatever anyhow anyway
6

used for referring to something when you do not know what it is

Example

You there, whatever your name is, come and stand here.

Example

He said there were 'technical difficulties', whatever that means.

Definition whatever in British English