Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “what” in English! In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing this common question word. We will also touch upon regional variations when necessary, providing you with tips and examples to help you understand and use the word “what” effectively in English conversations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What”
When using formal English, you may want to replace the word “what” with more polished phrases. Here are a few examples:
1. “Excuse me, could you repeat that?”
If you didn’t catch what someone said or need them to clarify, this phrase is a polite and respectful way to ask them to repeat themselves.
2. “Pardon me, what did you say?”
Similar to the previous phrase, this is another formal way to ask someone to repeat what they just said. It shows respect and conveys your interest in understanding them better.
3. “May I ask, what was the question?”
When you’re unsure about a question asked, or couldn’t hear it clearly, this formal phrase allows you to politely seek clarification.
Informal Ways to Say “What”
In more casual conversations, you can use the word “what” itself or some informal alternatives to express the same intent:
1. “What?”
Using the simple and straightforward word “what” is the most common way to ask someone to repeat themselves or provide additional information. It’s suitable for casual and friendly conversations.
2. “Say that again?”
If you’re in a relaxed setting and want someone to repeat what they just said, this phrase works well. It’s a slightly more informal alternative to “what.”
3. “Huh?”/”Hmm?”
These are casual interjections used to express confusion or a need for repetition. They are often used when you are taken by surprise or need someone to clarify something quickly.
Examples of “What” in Different Contexts
Let’s now explore some common scenarios and provide you with suitable ways to use “what” in English conversations:
1. Inquiring for Clarification:
Person A: “I went to the stor yesterday but couldn’t find the book.”
Person B: “What book are you talking about?”
In this example, Person B wants clarification regarding the specific book that Person A is referring to. By using “what,” Person B clearly expresses their request for more information.
2. Asking People to Repeat:
Person A: “I saw an amazing movie last night.”
Person B: “What? I didn’t catch that. Could you say it again, please?”
In this situation, Person A said something that Person B didn’t hear properly. By using “what” and following up with a polite request for repetition, Person B can show their interest in what Person A said.
3. Expressing Surprise:
Person A: “I won the lottery yesterday!”
Person B: “What? That’s incredible! Congratulations!”
Person B, upon hearing the surprising news shared by Person A, uses “what” to express astonishment and then goes on to congratulate them. This showcases how “what” can be employed in informal conversations to convey various emotions.
Regional Variations
English is spoken in various regions around the world, and there might be slight regional variations in expressing “what.” However, the differences remain minimal, and the formal and informal phrases covered in this guide are widely understood and used across English-speaking communities.
Conclusion
This guide has provided you with a range of ways to say “what” in English, both formally and informally. By using the phrases and examples provided, you’ll be able to confidently engage in conversations, seek clarification, and express surprise. Remember to choose the appropriate expression based on the formality of the situation, and adapt these phrases to suit your conversational style. Enjoy exploring the English language with the versatile word “what”!
