whatever

Often interchangeable with sense 1 in everyday speech, but the emphasis differs: sense 2 foregrounds the unconditional outcome ('the result stays the same'), whereas sense 1 foregrounds open choice ('any one you like'). Frequently used with 'may' or 'might' for a more formal or polite tone.

Always placed after the noun it modifies (postpositive position), whereas senses 1 and 2 place 'whatever' before the noun. Used only in negative or emphatically restrictive contexts, typically with 'no.' Fully synonymous with 'whatsoever,' which is more common in modern informal English. Distinguish from the adverb use (sense 2 of the adverb entry) which appears at the end of a clause.

This use is very informal and is often seen as rude or disrespectful, especially when talking to a teacher, parent, or boss. It signals that the speaker has no interest in continuing the conversation.

The 'whatever' clause can come at the start or end of the sentence. When it begins the sentence, a comma separates it from the main clause. The verb in the 'whatever' clause is often in the present tense even when referring to the future — for example, 'Whatever he decides, I will support him' (not 'will decide').

This sense is only used in questions. The word order follows standard question structure: 'Whatever + auxiliary verb + subject + main verb?' or 'Whatever + main verb (past) + subject?'. Unlike sense 1 and sense 2, 'whatever' here cannot be split from the verb. It is considered slightly old-fashioned or British in style; many American speakers use 'What ever' (two words) or simple 'What' with a surprised tone instead.

This sense is very informal and can be offensive if used with teachers, parents, or authority figures. The dismissive tone comes from both the word itself and the speaker's intonation. Teenagers and young adults use it most frequently. Distinguish from sense 5 (ANYTHING FINE): sense 4 dismisses the other person's comment, while sense 5 accepts any option neutrally.

Distinguish from sense 4 (DISMISSAL): sense 5 is neutral and cooperative — the speaker accepts any choice without negative attitude. Sense 4 rejects the conversation itself. Listeners tell them apart by tone of voice: sense 5 sounds relaxed, while sense 4 sounds annoyed. In writing, context is the only clue.

Often includes 'or' before it ('or whatever'). The listed items must all belong to the same semantic category. This sense is very common in spoken English and informal writing. In formal writing, use 'and other similar items' or 'among others' instead.

Always used in a two-part structure: the whatever-clause introduces an emphatic condition, followed by a main clause with a negative command — typically don't, never, must not, or should not. A positive suggestion after 'whatever you do' signals a different, non-warning sense of 'whatever.'

Spoken response only; the speaker agrees to end a disagreement, not because they genuinely share the other person's preference. Often accompanied by a shrug, sigh, or dismissive tone. Can be perceived as rude or impatient depending on context and intonation.

Functions as a relative pronoun introducing a noun clause that acts as the subject or object of the main verb. Often used with modal verbs such as 'can', 'may', or 'will' to express freedom of choice. Unlike 'anything', 'whatever' carries a sense of unlimited range.

Only used in questions. More common in British English than American English. Often expresses the speaker's reaction to surprising or confusing information. Not suitable for formal written contexts.