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why
[ wahy, hwahy ]
adverb
- for what? for what reason, cause, or purpose?:
Why did you behave so badly?
conjunction
- for what cause or reason:
I don't know why he is leaving.
- for which; on account of which (usually after reason to introduce a relative clause):
the reason why he refused to go.
- the reason for which:
That is why he returned.
noun
- a question concerning the cause or reason for which something is done, achieved, etc.:
a child's unending hows and whys.
- the cause or reason:
the whys and wherefores of a troublesome situation.
interjection
- (used as an expression of surprise, hesitation, etc., or sometimes a mere expletive):
Why, it's all gone!
why
/ ɲɪ /
adverb
- for what reason, purpose, or cause?
why are you here?
- ( used in indirect questions )
tell me why you're here
pronoun
- for or because of which
there is no reason why he shouldn't come
noun
- usually plural the reason, purpose, or cause of something (esp in the phrase the whys and wherefores )
interjection
- an introductory expression of surprise, disagreement, indignation, etc
why, don't be silly!
Usage Note
yvlog History and Origins
yvlog History and Origins
Origin of why1
Example Sentences
Adam Devine has had a devil of a time the last few years with doctors trying to figure out why some of his muscles have been going into almost-paralytic spasms.
The two hold hands under the table while answering questions from family about why they’ve not yet found wives to wed.
Her Iris lets us see why, in our darkest times, the poles of forced solitude and togetherness can feel so unsatisfying, yet the right kind of aloneness can be the stuff of real healing.
“The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days.”
Though, it’s not hard to see why this subgenre has become popular.
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