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Definition whenever in British English

whenever adverb, conjunction

adverb, conjunction
/wenˈevə(r)/

Whenever can be used in the following ways:

as a conjunction (connecting two clauses or phrases): Whenever I smiled, he smiled back.

as an adverb: You can come whenever. (introducing a question): Whenever have I been cruel to you?

1

every time that something happens

Example

Whenever I hear that song, I think of you.

Example

He felt the pain in his knee whenever he kicked a ball.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

at any time or in any situation when something may be wanted, needed, possible etc

Example

You can come and stay with us whenever you want.

Example

I must arrange another visit before going off to the wedding, or after I get back, or whenever.

Example

Use fresh vegetables whenever possible.

Synonyms and related words
2

used for saying that you do not care when something happens, because all times are equally convenient

Example

'When shall we meet? Thursday night? Friday?' 'Whenever. I don't mind.'

3

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

Example

Whenever will I make you understand that smoking is bad for you?

Synonyms and related words
4

used for showing that you do not know when something happened or will happen

Example

We'll have to wait until the next committee meeting, whenever that is.

Definition whenever in British English