Definition why in British English

why adverb

adverb

/waɪ/

Why can be used in the following ways:

as a question adverb (introducing a direct or indirect question): Why didn’t you phone me?I know why he’s worried. (followed by an infinitive without ‘to’): We can start now, so why wait?

as a relative adverb (referring back to a noun and introducing a relative clause): She’s tired and that’s the reason why she’s so bad-tempered. (introducing a clause that is the subject, object, or complement of another clause): Everyone in Dublin is so friendly, and that is why I love the city.

as an interjection: Why, what’s the matter?

used for asking the reason for something

Example

Why are you so angry?

Example

He asked me why I was leaving so early, and I didn't know what to say.

Example

Why is it that the country imports so much of its food?

Example

'She says she's not coming to the wedding.' 'Why ever not?'

Synonyms and related words

after you any chance of...? any luck?

Explore Thesaurus

1.1

used when someone knows or says the reason for something

Example

I don't know why, but there's something I don't like about that woman.

Example

There are a lot of things we need to discuss, which is why I'm here.

Example

I can only think of one reason why Frank should be jealous.

used at the beginning of a comment or reply for showing that you are surprised

Example

'Henry's arriving on the twenty-eighth.' 'Why, that's tomorrow!'

Example

Why, I bet you never had the slightest intention of keeping your promise.

Definition why in British English

why adverb What are red words? Around 90% of spoken and written English relies on just 7,500 common words. These words are highlighted in red and are ranked using a star system. One-star words are commonly used Two-star words are even more common Three-star words are the most frequently used

why adverb