what
what — 形容詞
1. used before a noun phrase in exclamations to express strong feelings — such as s
多麼；真
用於感嘆句，表示強烈感受
used before a noun phrase in exclamations to express strong feelings — such as surprise, admiration, disappointment, or shock — about how remarkable, impressive, or terrible something is
What a beautiful day it is for a walk in the park!
今天天氣真好，適合去公園走走！
exclamatory: 'what a/an + (adj) + noun' structure
What a mess the children made in the kitchen with all the flour!
孩子們在廚房裡把麵粉弄得亂七八糟！
What a clever solution Noor found to fix the broken bicycle!
Noor 找到修好腳踏車的方法，真是聰明！
What terrible news Meera received about the cancelled flight home!
Meera 聽到航班取消的消息，真是太糟了！
What wonderful music the orchestra played at the concert last night!
昨晚管弦樂團演奏的音樂真是太棒了！
文法句型
what + a/an + (adjective) + noun (exclamation)
用法筆記
This sense always takes an exclamation mark in writing. When the noun is singular and countable, 'what a' or 'what an' is used before the noun phrase.
常見錯誤
2. all of a certain thing that someone has or can access, especially when the quant
僅有的
指有限數量的事物
all of a certain thing that someone has or can access, especially when the quantity is small or limited
What money Yuki had quickly ran out after she lost her job.
Yuki 失業之後，她僅有的那點錢很快就花光了。
what + noun + clause: 'the … that' meaning
Christopher spent what free time he had reading novels at the library.
Christopher 把僅有的空閒時間都用在圖書館看小說了。
What little savings the Sivan family had went toward urgent medical bills.
Sivan 一家僅有的一點積蓄都花在緊急醫療帳單上了。
The farmer sold what crops remained after the storm destroyed the fields.
農夫把風災後剩下的作物都賣掉了。
Jabari shared what food he had with the visitors who arrived late.
Jabari 把他僅有的食物分給了晚到的客人。
- the … that
more explicit but less natural in most contexts
- as much … as
emphasises quantity rather than a specific set
文法句型
what + noun + subject + verb (meaning: the noun that)
用法筆記
The noun after 'what' in this sense is typically non-countable or plural. Adverbs like 'little' or 'few' often appear between 'what' and the noun to emphasise the limited amount.
常見錯誤
3. any of a particular type of thing that — used to refer to something without limi
任何…的
不限種類或數量
any of a particular type of thing that — used to refer to something without limiting it in amount, number, or kind, like saying 'whatever'
Please take what books you need from the shelf in my office.
請從我辦公室書架上拿任何你需要的書。
what + noun = 'whatever/any … that' (no limit)
Mayumi offered what help she could give to the local food bank.
Mayumi 提供了她所能給予當地食物銀行的任何幫助。
You may borrow what tools you require for the kitchen renovation.
你可以借用裝修廚房所需的任何工具。
The librarian will lend what materials are available for your research.
圖書館員願意提供你研究所需的任何資料。
The charity accepts what donations people wish to give throughout the year.
這家慈善機構接受人們一年到頭願意捐贈的任何物資。
- whatever
more informal; directly interchangeable
- any … that
more explicit about the open-ended nature
文法句型
what + noun (open reference, meaning 'whatever/any … that')
用法筆記
Distinguish from sense 2: sense 2 ('the … that') implies a limited or specific known quantity, while sense 3 ('whatever') is open-ended — the amount or choice is unrestricted. If you can replace 'what' with 'whatever', sense 3 is the correct interpretation.
常見錯誤
4. any at all — used in rhetorical questions or negative-suggesting statements to m
什麼（反問）
用於反問，表示「任何…也」
any at all — used in rhetorical questions or negative-suggesting statements to mean 'any possible' or 'no matter which', often implying that the answer does not matter or is obvious
What business is it of the neighbours what time we go to bed?
我們幾點睡覺，關鄰居什麼事？
rhetorical: 'what + noun' meaning 'any at all'
What reason does the landlord have to enter the building after midnight?
房東有什麼理由在半夜進入大樓？
What difference does it make to the driver which route we choose?
我們選哪條路，對司機來說有什麼差別？
What right do the critics have to judge an artist's personal choices?
那些評論家有什麼權利評判一位藝術家的個人選擇？
What evidence do the police need before they can search the building?
警方在搜索大樓之前需要什麼證據？
- any
more direct; 'what' carries a stronger rhetorical tone
文法句型
what + noun (rhetorical question, meaning 'any at all')
用法筆記
This sense is almost always used in rhetorical questions where the speaker suggests that there is no good answer. The noun is usually abstract (business, reason, difference, right, evidence, use, point). Not used in ordinary information-seeking questions.
常見錯誤
what — 副詞
1. Used in questions to ask about the way something happens, how important it is, o
如何；怎樣
詢問方式、程度或重要性的疑問副詞
Used in questions to ask about the way something happens, how important it is, or to what degree it matters
What does it matter if we arrive a few minutes late to the party?
如果我們晚幾分鐘到派對，那又有什麼關係呢？
rhetorical: what does it matter + if clause
Anjali wondered what difference a new coat would make in this cold weather.
Anjali 在想，在這種冷天氣裡多一件新外套又能有什麼差別。
What good is a phone if the battery only lasts two hours?
如果電池只能撐兩個小時，那手機有什麼用呢？
The manager asked what relevance the old report had to this year's sales figures.
經理問那份舊報告跟今年的銷售數字有什麼關聯。
What do our personal opinions have to do with the results of the test?
我們個人的意見和考試的結果有什麼關係？
- how
a more direct word for asking about manner; 'what' adds a rhetorical or dismissive tone
- to what extent
more formal and focuses specifically on degree rather than manner
文法句型
what + clause (rhetorical question)
what does it matter + if/whether clause
what + have to do with
用法筆記
Commonly used in rhetorical questions that do not expect a direct answer. Frequently paired with 'matter', 'difference', 'good', and 'have to do with' to question the significance or relevance of something.
常見錯誤
2. Used before a list of reasons or causes to explain why something happened, meani
部分因為
列舉原因的慣用結構
Used before a list of reasons or causes to explain why something happened, meaning 'partly because of' or 'taking into consideration'
What with the rain and the cold wind, the picnic was a complete disaster.
又是下雨又是冷風，野餐徹底失敗了。
what with + two noun phrases listing causes
What with the extra work and the long hours, Daichi felt exhausted by Friday.
Daichi 又是加班又是工時長，到了週五已經累壞了。
What with the noise from the street and the baby crying, Selim could not sleep at all.
Selim 又是街道噪音又是嬰兒哭鬧，整晚根本無法入睡。
What with the traffic jam and the train delay, we missed the first act of the play.
又是塞車又是火車誤點，我們錯過了第一幕。
- partly because of
more formal and explicit; not a fixed phrase like 'what with'
- considering
similar meaning but takes a noun phrase or gerund directly, without 'with'
文法句型
what with + noun phrase + and + noun phrase
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed construction 'what with', followed by at least one noun phrase. A second noun phrase is commonly added after 'and' to list multiple causes. Cannot be split or used alone.
常見錯誤
what — 限定詞
1. placed before a noun to ask for specific facts about a person, an object, or a s
什麼
詢問關於人或事物的資訊
placed before a noun to ask for specific facts about a person, an object, or a situation
What colour did Élise pick for her kitchen walls?
Élise 選了什麼顏色來刷她的廚房牆壁？
What subjects does Asher enjoy most at his new school?
Asher 在新學校最喜歡哪些科目？
what + noun as question word
What time does the first bus leave for the airport in the morning?
早上第一班巴士幾點出發去機場？
What kind of food does Yael like to eat when she travels abroad?
Yael 出國旅行時喜歡吃什麼樣的食物？
What size bag do you need for your weekend trip to Kenting?
去墾丁度週末你需要多大的袋子？
- which
used when choosing from a limited, known set; 'what' is for open-ended questions
文法句型
what + noun
what + adjective + noun
what + kind/sort/type of + noun
用法筆記
Always followed by a noun or an adjective plus noun. Do not use a bare 'what' without a following noun — that is the pronoun form.
常見錯誤
2. placed before a noun in a question when you find something surprising, strange,
什麼（質疑）
用於疑問句表達驚訝或難以相信
placed before a noun in a question when you find something surprising, strange, or hard to accept
What nonsense has Femi been telling everyone about the party?
Femi 到底跟所有人說了派對的什麼鬼話？
what + noun expressing disbelief
What possible reason could Lakan have for refusing a free ticket?
Lakan 能有什麼理由拒絕免費的門票？
What kind of answer is 'I forgot' supposed to be?
「我忘了」算哪門子的回答？
What use is a computer that breaks down every single week?
一台每個禮拜都壞掉的電腦有什麼用？
- what on earth
adds stronger emphasis to the surprise or disbelief
- what in the world
adds emphasis, slightly more informal
文法句型
what + noun (expressing surprise)
what on earth + noun
用法筆記
Commonly used with nouns that carry a negative or critical meaning, such as 'nonsense', 'excuse', 'mess', or 'rubbish'.
常見錯誤
3. placed before a noun in a question about the purpose, benefit, or cause of an ac
有何
詢問原因、目的或好處
placed before a noun in a question about the purpose, benefit, or cause of an action or situation
What reason did Reema give for leaving her job at the factory?
Reema 為了什麼理由辭掉工廠的工作？
what reason + for asking cause
What good will it do to stay up all night worrying about the exam?
整晚不睡覺擔心考試有什麼好處？
What point is there in buying a car if you live right next to a station?
如果你就住在車站旁邊，買車有什麼意義？
What difference does it make whether we leave now or later?
我們現在走跟晚一點走有什麼差別？
- why
adverb, not a determiner; used for the same purpose in simpler structures
文法句型
what + good/use/point/difference (rhetorical)
what + reason (direct)
用法筆記
Frequently used in rhetorical questions that imply there is no good answer. The nouns 'good', 'use', 'point', and 'difference' are common in this pattern.
常見錯誤
what — 前限定詞
1. used before a noun phrase that begins with 'a' or 'an' to show a strong feeling
好一個；多麼
置於名詞前表達強烈感受
used before a noun phrase that begins with 'a' or 'an' to show a strong feeling such as surprise, pleasure, or annoyance when you describe a person, thing, or situation — for example, saying 'What a mess!' when you walk into a messy room, or 'What a lovely surprise!' when a friend visits unexpectedly.
What a beautiful garden you have, Mrs. Chen!
陳太太，你家的花園好漂亮啊！
what a + adjective + noun — exclamatory
Layla whispered, "What an incredible view from this hill!"
Layla 低聲說：「這座山上的景色太美了！」
what an + adjective + noun — exclamation in direct speech
What a long and tiring journey that was for all of us!
對我們所有人來說，那真是一趟漫長又累人的旅程！
Faisal could not believe what a kind thing his neighbour had done.
Faisal 不敢相信他的鄰居做了這麼一件好事。
Nkechi smiled and said, "What a clever dog you are!" to her pet.
Nkechi 笑著對她的寵物說：「你真是隻聰明的狗！」
- such
similar emphatic meaning but follows the noun: 'What a surprise!' → 'Such a surprise!'
文法句型
what a/an + (adjective) + singular countable noun
what + (adjective) + uncountable noun
what + (adjective) + plural noun
用法筆記
This exclamatory 'what' is always placed at the start of a phrase, before 'a' or 'an' with singular countable nouns. The sentence follows statement word order (subject before verb), not question word order. For uncountable nouns ('What luck!') or plural nouns ('What beautiful flowers!'), no article is used.
常見錯誤
what — 代名詞 / 限定詞
1. used to ask someone for specific details about a person, thing, or situation — f
什麼；哪個
詢問關於人或事物的資訊（代名詞）
used to ask someone for specific details about a person, thing, or situation — for example, asking what someone's name is, what time it is, or what happened.
What is your name, and how do you spell that?
你叫什麼名字，怎麼拼寫？
basic interrogative: what + be + noun phrase
Omar asked the receptionist what time the meeting started.
Omar 問櫃檯人員會議幾點開始。
indirect question: what + time + clause
Nila could not remember what she had put in her bag.
Nila 想不起來她在包包裡放了什麼。
What kind of food does Aoi like best?
Aoi 最喜歡什麼樣的食物？
The teacher asked the students what caused the accident at the lab.
老師問學生實驗室裡的那場意外是怎麼發生的。
- which
implies a limited set of choices, while 'what' is open-ended
文法句型
what + (noun) + auxiliary + subject + verb
what + be + noun phrase
用法筆記
Often begins direct questions. In indirect questions (embedded in statements), the word order changes to subject + verb, as in 'She asked what I wanted.'
常見錯誤
2. used to introduce a noun clause that refers to something someone does, says, bel
所…的
引導名詞子句，指某事或某物
used to introduce a noun clause that refers to something someone does, says, believes, or experiences — this clause then acts as the subject or object of the whole sentence.
What Christopher said at the meeting surprised everyone in the room.
Christopher 在會議上所說的話讓房間裡每個人都大吃一驚。
what-clause as subject of sentence
Paloma could not believe what she saw through the window.
Paloma 不敢相信她從窗戶看到的景象。
what-clause as object of verb
What matters most to Pim is spending time with his family.
對 Pim 來說最重要的是和家人在一起。
Eve wrote down everything, but that was not what the teacher wanted.
Eve 把所有東西都寫了下來，但那不是老師要的。
The twins rarely agree on what to watch on television.
這對雙胞胎對於要看什麼電視節目很少達成共識。
- that which
more formal; used mainly in written English
- whatever
emphasises that it does not matter which thing
文法句型
what + clause = 'the thing(s) that + clause'
用法筆記
Often replaceable with 'the thing(s) that' for clarity. Unlike 'which', 'what' does not refer back to a specific noun mentioned earlier.
常見錯誤
3. used before a noun or noun phrase to express a strong feeling, such as surprise,
真；好
感嘆用法，表達驚訝或讚歎
used before a noun or noun phrase to express a strong feeling, such as surprise, admiration, excitement, or disappointment — for example, saying what a lovely view or what terrible news.
What a beautiful sunset we saw from the top of the hill!
我們從山頂看到多美的夕陽啊！
what + a + adjective + noun
Chidi shouted, 'What an incredible goal that player scored!'
Chidi 大喊：「那名球員踢進了多麼不可思議的一球！」
what + an + adjective + noun + clause
Gabriela could not believe what a mess the children had made.
Gabriela 不敢相信孩子們把房間弄得有多亂。
What lovely flowers Asher brought to the dinner party!
Asher 帶去晚宴的花真是漂亮！
Ryo kept saying what a shame it was to miss the concert.
Ryo 一直說錯過那場演唱會真是太可惜了。
文法句型
what + (a/an) + adjective + noun
用法筆記
Used with singular countable nouns (what a mess), plural nouns (what lovely flowers), and uncountable nouns (what luck). Do not use the article 'a/an' before plural or uncountable nouns.
常見錯誤
4. used after listing a few items to suggest there are other similar objects or exa
等等；之類
列舉時表示還有其他同類事物
used after listing a few items to suggest there are other similar objects or examples — often in phrases like 'and what have you' or 'or what not'.
The stall sold handmade jewellery, scarves, and what have you.
那個攤位賣手工飾品、圍巾之類的東西。
and what have you — informal set phrase
Nila packed snacks, drinks, sandwiches, and what not for the trip.
Nila 為這次旅行準備了零食、飲料、三明治等等。
and what not — informal set phrase
The class studied painting, drawing, and what have you in art club.
美術社的課學習了繪畫、素描等等。
Christopher brought cups, plates, napkins, and what not to the picnic.
Christopher 帶了杯子、盤子、餐巾紙等東西來野餐。
文法句型
... and what have you
... or what not
用法筆記
Always appears as part of the fixed expressions 'and what have you' or 'and what not'. These are informal; in formal writing use 'and so on' or 'and other similar items'.
5. no matter what difficulties or problems arise; used to express determination to
無論如何
無論發生什麼困難都堅持下去
no matter what difficulties or problems arise; used to express determination to continue despite any obstacles.
Come what may, the Watanabe family promised to stay together.
無論如何，渡邊一家承諾會在一起。
come what may — fixed phrase, formal register
Élise decided to follow her dream, come what may, and moved abroad.
Élise 決定無論如何都要追隨她的夢想，於是搬到了國外。
The team agreed to finish the project, come what may, by Friday night.
團隊同意無論如何都要在星期五晚上以前完成這個專案。
Come what may, Aoi promised to always support her younger brother.
無論如何，Aoi 承諾永遠支持她的弟弟。
- whatever happens
neutral register, more common in everyday speech
- no matter what
informal and widely used
文法句型
come what may
用法筆記
This phrase is always used in its fixed form 'come what may' — the verb 'come' stays in the subjunctive and never changes tense. It appears at the end of a sentence or clause.
常見錯誤
6. to receive or give a severe punishment or a strong scolding — used in the fixed
嚴懲；痛罵
固定片語，指嚴厲懲罰或訓斥
to receive or give a severe punishment or a strong scolding — used in the fixed expressions 'give someone what for' or 'get what for'.
The neighbour gave the noisy dog's owner what for.
鄰居把那隻吵鬧的狗的主人痛罵了一頓。
give + someone + what for — informal British idiom
Chidi knew he would get what for if his father found the broken window.
Chidi 知道他父親如果發現打破的窗戶，他一定會被嚴懲。
get what for — passive punishment sense
The coach gave the players what for after they lost the match badly.
球隊慘敗之後，教練把球員們狠狠訓了一頓。
Paloma gave the dishonest salesman what for right in the shop.
Paloma 當場把那個不老實的推銷員痛罵了一頓。
- tell someone off
neutral, less severe — scolding without physical punishment
- punish
more general, can cover any kind of penalty
文法句型
give + someone + what for
get + what for
用法筆記
Almost exclusively British English. The expression does not change form for tense — 'gave someone what for' is the past tense. The 'for' is part of the fixed phrase and not a preposition. Not used in American English.
常見錯誤
7. used at the start of a statement to draw attention to the thing or idea you cons
…的重點
強調個人認為最重要的事物或觀點
used at the start of a statement to draw attention to the thing or idea you consider most important — for example, saying what you really need, what you like most, or what matters in a situation.
What this company really needs is a fresh start and strong leadership.
這家公司真正需要的是全新的開始和堅強的領導。
what + clause + be + noun phrase — statement focus
What I like about Yael is her honest way of saying what she thinks.
我喜歡 Yael 的一點是她坦率表達想法的方式。
what + I like about [person] + be
What the town needs most is a reliable bus service for older people.
這個小鎮最需要的是讓老人家有可靠的公車服務。
What surprised Trang most was how warmly everyone welcomed her.
最讓 Trang 驚訝的是大家有多麼熱情地歡迎她。
What the children really wanted was to stay at the park a little longer.
孩子們真正想要的只是在公園多待一會兒。
- the thing that
more literal and less emphatic; can replace 'what' for clarity
文法句型
what + clause + be + noun phrase
用法筆記
The verb after 'what + clause' is always singular, even when the following noun phrase is plural: 'What I need is good books.' Not 'are good books.'
常見錯誤
8. used in statements or questions that show you are uncertain about a choice, acti
哪個
不確定時的疑問用法
used in statements or questions that show you are uncertain about a choice, action, or fact — for example, not being sure what to do, wondering what happened, or asking what someone meant.
Tara was not sure what to bring to the beach party tomorrow afternoon.
Tara 不確定明天下午去海灘派對要帶什麼。
not sure what + to-infinitive
Henrik wondered what his colleague meant by that strange comment.
Henrik 很想知道同事那句奇怪的話是什麼意思。
wonder + what + clause
The committee discussed what to do about the leaking roof in the gym.
委員會討論了體育館漏水該如何處理。
Aylin asked the tour guide what time the museum would close that day.
Aylin 問導遊當天博物館幾點關門。
The neighbours could not decide what colour to paint the front door.
鄰居們決定不了前門要漆什麼顏色。
- which
implies a limited set of options; 'what' is more open-ended
文法句型
not sure what + to-infinitive
wonder / ask / know + what + clause
用法筆記
In embedded questions (after verbs like 'wonder', 'know', 'ask'), use subject-verb order, not question order: 'I wonder what he wants', not 'I wonder what does he want.'
常見錯誤
9. used alone as an exclamation to show you are very surprised by something someone
怎麼會
聽到驚訝消息時的反應
used alone as an exclamation to show you are very surprised by something someone has just told you — as if asking them to confirm that it is really true.
Jiwoo said she won first prize in the competition — and I said, 'What? No way!'
Jiwoo 說她在比賽中得了第一名，我說：「怎麼會？不可能！」
standalone 'What?' expressing disbelief
'The wedding is next month, not next year.' 'What? Are you teasing me?'
「婚禮是在下個月，不是明年。」「怎麼會？你在開玩笑嗎？」
Aylin told me the school is closing after the holidays. What? That cannot be right.
Aylin 告訴我學校要在假期後關閉。怎麼會？這不可能是真的。
The Nguyen family is moving to New Zealand. What? I had no idea at all.
Nguyen 一家要搬到紐西蘭。怎麼會？我完全不知道。
- no way
more informal, expresses stronger disbelief
- you're kidding
informal, used when someone tells you something hard to believe
- really?
softer and less dramatic than 'What?'
- come on
expresses disbelief that the speaker finds unreasonable
文法句型
What? (standalone exclamation)
用法筆記
Rising intonation shows surprise (asking for confirmation); falling intonation shows shock or disbelief. In writing, it is usually followed by an exclamation mark or question mark.
10. used in phrases such as 'so what?' or 'what of it?' to dismiss a point or critic
那又怎樣
表示某事不重要或不在乎
used in phrases such as 'so what?' or 'what of it?' to dismiss a point or criticism, indicating that you do not consider it worth your attention or concern.
So what if I made a small mistake? Everyone makes mistakes from time to time.
就算我犯了個小錯那又怎樣？誰都會偶爾犯錯。
so what + if + clause — dismissing criticism
He said my shirt is too bright. So what? I like colour and that counts.
他說我的襯衫太鮮豔了。那又怎樣？我喜歡顏色，這才重要。
They criticised Tara's apartment decor. What of it? It is her home, not theirs.
他們批評 Tara 的公寓裝潢。那又怎樣？那是她的家，又不是他們的。
Your brother says our plan will fail. So what? We believe in our own idea.
你哥哥說我們的計畫會失敗。那又怎樣？我們相信自己的想法。
- so what if it matters?
not a true antonym — this sense is rhetorical, so antonyms do not apply naturally
文法句型
so what + (if) + clause
what of it
用法筆記
'So what?' is more common than 'What of it?' in everyday speech. Both are informal and can sound rude if used in formal or polite conversations. In American English, 'So what?' is the standard form; 'What of it?' is slightly more common in British English.
11. used alone as a short question when you did not catch what someone said or could
再說
沒聽清楚時請對方重複
used alone as a short question when you did not catch what someone said or could not follow their meaning, asking them to repeat or explain.
'What?' Rachel asked, leaning forward. 'The train was too loud and I missed your words.'
Rachel 探身向前問：「什麼？火車聲音太大，我沒聽清你的話。」
standalone 'What?' asking for repetition
Jabari said, 'What? Speak a little louder — I cannot hear you over the music.'
Jabari 說：「什麼？說大聲一點——音樂聲太大，我聽不見你說話。」
'What was that? My ears are still ringing from the loudspeaker at the concert.'
「什麼？演唱會的擴音器讓我的耳朵還在嗡嗡作響。」
The teacher said something from the back of the room, and Nellie called out, 'What?'
老師從教室後面說了句話，Nellie 大聲問：「什麼？」
- pardon
formal and polite; the safest choice in any situation
- excuse me
polite; works in both casual and formal contexts
- come again
very informal, friendly
文法句型
What? (asking for repetition)
用法筆記
'What?' as a request for repetition is very common in casual speech but can sound impolite in formal situations — use 'Pardon?', 'Excuse me?', or 'Could you repeat that?' instead.
常見錯誤
12. used as a brief spoken response when someone calls your name or addresses you, l
怎麼了
回應呼喚時詢問對方來意
used as a brief spoken response when someone calls your name or addresses you, letting them know you have heard them and are asking them to state what they need.
'Nellie?' 'What?' she said, looking up from her book. 'Is something the matter?'
「Nellie？」「怎麼了？」她從書本上抬起頭說，「出了什麼事嗎？」
'What?' as a response to someone calling your name
'Excuse me, ma'am?' 'What? How can I help you today?' the clerk replied.
「不好意思，女士？」「怎麼了？今天需要我幫忙什麼嗎？」店員回答道。
'Dad?' 'What? Come in and tell me what you need,' he said without turning.
「爸？」「怎麼了？進來告訴我你需要什麼。」他頭也不回地說。
'Professor Chen?' 'What? Oh, come in and tell me what you need help with.'
「陳教授？」「怎麼了？喔，進來告訴我需要幫忙什麼。」
- yes?
neutral and polite; the best choice in formal situations
- can I help you?
formal and service-oriented
- what is it?
slightly more impatient than 'What?' alone
文法句型
What? (responding to someone calling your name)
What is it?
用法筆記
This is an acknowledgement ('I hear you'), not a question about identity. The tone of voice matters — a flat 'What?' can sound impatient, while a rising one sounds neutral or helpful. More formal alternatives include 'Yes?' or 'How can I help you?'
13. used as a short, strong cry to show that you are very surprised, shocked, or ang
什麼！
表達驚訝、震驚或憤怒的感嘆
used as a short, strong cry to show that you are very surprised, shocked, or angry about something
What! You lost your passport again, Isabela? We fly out tomorrow!
什麼！Isabela，你把護照又弄丟了？
exclamation showing surprise or shock
What! The bus drove right past without stopping for us!
什麼！那輛公車直接開過去，沒有停下來載我們！
What! You did not tell your mother about the party?
什麼！你沒有跟你媽媽說派對的事？
What! Someone took my lunch from the office fridge again?
什麼！有人又從辦公室冰箱拿走了我的午餐？
文法句型
What! + [statement expressing reaction]
用法筆記
Usually spoken with a strong, rising intonation. In writing, it is often followed by an exclamation mark and then an explanation of what caused the reaction.
常見錯誤
14. said when you want to put forward a suggestion or an idea for other people to th
提議
用「what about」提出建議
said when you want to put forward a suggestion or an idea for other people to think about, often using the words "what about" or "what if"
What about asking Rania to join our team for the project?
找 Rania 加入我們的團隊做這個專案，怎麼樣？
what about + -ing for suggestions
What if we meet at the park before the film starts, Hyun?
Hyun，如果我們在電影開演前於公園碰面呢？
what if + clause for suggestions
Owen looked at the menu and said, 'What about the grilled fish?'
Owen 看著菜單說：「烤魚怎麼樣？」
What do you say we take the train instead of driving, Nia?
Nia，我們搭火車而不開車，你覺得如何？
- how about
interchangeable in most informal suggestions
- shall we
more formal and explicitly includes the speaker in the action
- why don't we
directly suggests a joint action
文法句型
what about + noun/gerund
what if + clause
what do you say + clause?
用法筆記
Frequently used to offer an idea politely or to ask for agreement. Compare with sense 18, where 'what if' introduces a hypothetical worry rather than a suggestion.
常見錯誤
15. used to mention a person, thing, or subject in a conversation, often to change t
引出話題
提及某人事物來開啟對話
used to mention a person, thing, or subject in a conversation, often to change the topic or add a new point to discuss
Wren asked, 'So what about the weather in Taipei this weekend?'
Wren 問道：「那這個週末台北的天氣怎麼樣？」
what about for changing topic
What about your sister in Kaohsiung? Is she still working at the hospital?
妳在高雄的妹妹呢？她還在醫院工作嗎？
Élise nodded and said, 'Good point. Now what about the cost of the tickets?'
Élise 點點頭說：「說得好。那現在來說說門票的費用吧。」
Romi brought up a new topic at dinner: 'What about the trip to Japan?'
Romi 在晚餐時提起一個新話題：「那下個月去日本的旅行呢？」
- how about
interchangeable in most informal topic introductions
- speaking of
introduces a topic related to what was just said
- regarding
more formal; used in written or business contexts
文法句型
what about + noun phrase
So what about + noun phrase?
用法筆記
Often used to shift conversation to a new subject. Unlike sense 14 (suggestion), the speaker is not offering a plan but simply raising a topic for discussion.
常見錯誤
16. used in place of a person's name or the name of an object when you cannot rememb
那個誰
代替記不起來的名稱
used in place of a person's name or the name of an object when you cannot remember it or do not know it
Can you pass me the what's-it-called? The metal thing for opening bottles.
可以遞給我那個叫什麼來著的嗎？那個開瓶子的金屬工具。
what's-it-called for unknown or forgotten object name
I saw what's-her-name from high school today — the tall girl with the red bag.
我今天看到高中那個誰——就是那個高高的、背紅色包的女生。
what's-her-name for forgotten person name
Please ask Mr. what's-his-name to send us the papers before Friday.
請叫那位某某先生星期五之前把文件寄給我們。
She left her whatchamacallit — that small bag for her phone — on the bus.
她把那個叫什麼的小袋子——就是放手機的那個——掉在公車上了。
- so-and-so
more formal or old-fashioned; also used for a name the speaker knows but does not want to say
- thingamajig
informal; used for objects, not people
文法句型
what's-his-name / what's-her-name / what's-their-name
what's-it-called / whatchamacallit
用法筆記
The form changes depending on the person: what's-his-name (male), what's-her-name (female), what's-their-name (plural or non-binary). For objects, 'what's-it-called' or 'whatchamacallit' is used.
常見錯誤
17. used to ask about the purpose or reason behind an action, event, or object, mean
為何；做什麼
詢問行動的目的或理由
used to ask about the purpose or reason behind an action, event, or object, meaning roughly "why"
What did you tell him that for, Wren? Now he is worried.
Wren，你跟他說那個做什麼？現在他擔心起來了。
what + clause + for asking reason
What are you carrying that heavy box for? Let me help you.
你搬那個重箱子做什麼？我來幫你。
I need your passport for the form. — What do you need it for?
我填表需要你的護照。——你要護照做什麼？
Élise pointed at the tool in Tara's hand and asked, 'What is that thing for?'
Élise 指著 Tara 手上的工具問：「那個東西是做什麼用的？」
- why
more general; asks for any reason or cause, not just purpose
文法句型
what + [clause] + for?
What for? (stand-alone)
用法筆記
Unlike 'why', which asks for a reason, 'what...for' focuses on the purpose or intended use. 'What for?' can be used alone as a short question.
常見錯誤
18. used to ask about the possible result or consequences of a situation that may or
萬一；假設
假設某情況發生會怎樣
used to ask about the possible result or consequences of a situation that may or may not happen
What if it rains during the picnic? Do we have a backup plan, Hyun?
Hyun，如果野餐時下雨怎麼辦？我們有備用計畫嗎？
what if + clause for hypothetical questions about consequences
Sirin lay awake thinking, 'What if I fail the test tomorrow?'
Sirin 躺著睡不著，心想：「萬一我明天考試沒過怎麼辦？」
What if we miss the last train home tonight? How will we get back?
如果我們錯過今晚最後一班火車怎麼辦？我們要怎麼回去？
Romi wants to start her own cafe, but she worries: 'What if it does not work?'
Romi 知道自己想開一家咖啡店，但她還是擔心：「萬一不成功怎麼辦？」
文法句型
what if + [clause]?
用法筆記
Distinguish from sense 14: sense 18 asks about possible problems or consequences (hypothetical worry), while sense 14 offers a positive idea (suggestion). 'What if it rains?' = worry about a problem; 'What if we go to the beach?' = suggestion.
常見錯誤
19. said when you accept that something is a fact but do not see why it should make
所以呢
接受事實但認為不影響決定
said when you accept that something is a fact but do not see why it should make a difference to your opinion or plan
The project manager told Yan the deadline was missed. So what? The client had not complained yet.
專案經理告訴 Yan 說截止日期已經過了。那又怎樣？客戶都還沒抱怨呢。
so what? dismissing a problem as unimportant
Théo knew his haircut looked unusual. 'So what if it does?' he said with a grin.
Théo 知道自己髮型很奇怪。「那又怎樣？」他笑著說。
Hamza knew the jacket was expensive. 'What of it?' he thought. 'I saved for months.'
Hamza 知道那件外套很貴。「那又怎樣？」他想。「我存了好幾個月的錢。」
Liam admitted his mistake openly. 'So what if I did?' he asked his boss calmly.
Liam 坦承自己犯了錯。「就算是我做的又怎樣？」他冷靜地問主管。
文法句型
So what? (stand-alone)
So what if + [clause]?
What of it?
用法筆記
Distinguish from sense 10: sense 10 ('What?') is a short defensive response when someone criticizes you. Sense 19 ('So what?') is a longer rhetorical challenge that concedes the fact but questions its relevance.
常見錯誤
20. used as a short, sharp exclamation to show that someone's suggestion or statemen
太扯了
認為對方的建議荒謬不合理
used as a short, sharp exclamation to show that someone's suggestion or statement seems completely wrong, silly, or impossible
Meera told Christopher she would cycle across the desert. 'What?' he said. 'You have never camped.'
Meera 告訴 Christopher 她要騎腳踏車橫越沙漠。「什麼？」他說。「妳從來沒露營過。」
what! reacting to an absurd plan
The boss announced a midnight meeting. Lakan whispered to his colleague, 'What? That cannot be real.'
老闆宣布半夜要開會。Lakan 低聲對同事說：「什麼？這不可能是真的吧。」
Marta's brother wants to swim in the freezing river. 'What?' she cried. 'You will catch a cold.'
Marta 的哥哥想在冰冷的河裡游泳。「什麼？」她大叫。「你會感冒的。」
A stranger knocked and said the house was being sold. 'What?' the owner replied. 'I am not selling.'
一個陌生人敲門說這房子在出售。「什麼？」屋主回答。「我又不賣。」
- you're kidding
softer; expresses surprise without calling the idea stupid
- no way
informal; strongly rejects the possibility of something
- you can't be serious
longer but carries the same disbelief
文法句型
What! + [statement repeating the absurd idea]
用法筆記
Normally spoken with a sharp, rising intonation. In writing, the exclamation mark shows shock or disbelief. This sense is stronger than sense 13 — it implies the idea is foolish, not just surprising.
常見錯誤
21. to have a good understanding of which things are good, important, or true in a p
懂輕重
知道事情的好壞輕重
to have a good understanding of which things are good, important, or true in a particular area of life or work
After forty years of cooking, Chef Heloísa knows what is what in a professional kitchen.
煮了四十年的菜之後，Heloísa 主廚對專業廚房的一切瞭若指掌。
knows what's what — understanding of a domain
When you shop for a used car, take Gabriel with you. He knows what is what.
你去買二手車的時候，帶 Gabriel 一起去。他很懂車的好壞。
Grandpa has been growing vegetables for decades, so he knows what is what with soil and plants.
爺爺種菜種了幾十年，所以對土壤和植物瞭若指掌。
Daichi thinks he knows what is what, but his advice about investment is often wrong.
Daichi 自以為什麼都懂，但他的投資建議常常是錯的。
- know the ropes
specifically about procedures in a job or organization
- know one's stuff
emphasizes technical or professional knowledge
- know the score
similar but broader; understands how things really work
- not have a clue
complete lack of understanding
文法句型
[person] + know(s) what's what
[person] + doesn't know what's what
用法筆記
This is a fixed phrase — you cannot replace 'what's what' with a different structure. The contraction 'what's' is standard; 'know what is what' is less common but acceptable.
常見錯誤
22. used in questions to ask why a person, animal, or situation seems unusual, upset
哪裡不對
詢問為何人或情況顯得異常
used in questions to ask why a person, animal, or situation seems unusual, upset, or not normal
Tariro has not spoken to anyone all morning. What is with her today?
Tariro 整個早上都不跟任何人說話。她今天是怎麼了？
what's with + person — asking about unusual behavior
What is with all those empty boxes stacked in the hallway? Is someone moving out?
走廊上堆了那麼多空箱子是怎麼回事？有人在搬家嗎？
The dog kept scratching at the door and whining. 'What is wrong with her?' the little girl asked her mother.
那隻狗一直抓門哼哼叫。「她怎麼了？」小女孩問媽媽。
A customer was shouting at the cashier for no clear reason. 'What is the matter with him?' another shopper whispered.
有個客人莫名其妙地對著收銀員大吼。「他怎麼回事？」另一位顧客小聲說。
- what's up with
slightly more casual; can also mean 'how is X doing?'
- what's going on with
asks about the situation more broadly
文法句型
What's with + [noun phrase]?
What's the matter with + [noun phrase]?
What's wrong with + [noun phrase]?
用法筆記
'What's with X?' is very informal and common in spoken English. 'What's the matter with X?' and 'What's wrong with X?' are slightly more neutral and can also be used about objects or situations. Do not confuse with sense 1, which asks for factual information.
常見錯誤
23. used in questions that express surprise, criticism, or confusion about the reaso
搞什麼
用問句表達不滿或困惑
used in questions that express surprise, criticism, or confusion about the reason someone did something — often implying their action was unwise or unnecessary
What did you climb that old fence for? There is a gate just around the corner.
你爬那道舊圍籬做什麼？轉角就有一扇門啊。
what...for expressing criticism about an action
A mother asked her son, 'What did you buy ten cartons of milk for? We are only two.'
一位媽媽問兒子：「你買十盒牛奶做什麼？我們才兩個人而已。」
The teacher sent three students home early. 'What did you send them home for?' the principal asked, surprised.
老師讓三名學生提早回家。「你讓他們回家做什麼？」校長驚訝地問。
A nurse at the clinic asked, 'What did you come all the way here for if you refuse treatment?'
診所裡的護士問：「你大老遠跑來這裡，結果不接受治療，那你來做什麼？」
- why on earth
emphasizes the same sense of exasperation more explicitly
- what's the point of
asks about purpose but carries a similar critical tone
文法句型
What + [clause] + for? (expressing criticism or exasperation)
用法筆記
Distinguish from sense 17: sense 17 asks in a neutral way about purpose ('What is this tool for?'). Sense 23 carries a tone of criticism or exasperation — the speaker thinks the action was unnecessary or wrong. In speech, the stress falls on the verb (e.g., 'What DID you do that for?').
常見錯誤
24. used at the start of a statement to introduce two or more causes that together e
因為…所以
列舉造成某事的多種原因
used at the start of a statement to introduce two or more causes that together explain why something happened or why a situation is difficult
What with the heavy rain and the traffic jam, the guests were two hours late for the wedding.
因為下大雨加上塞車，賓客們參加婚禮遲到了兩個小時。
what with + cause 1 and + cause 2 — explaining a result
What with school during the day and a job at night, the student has almost no time for himself.
白天要上課，晚上又要打工，這位學生幾乎完全沒有自己的時間。
The garden looks terrible this year, what with the dry summer and the rabbits eating every new plant.
今年花園的狀況糟透了，因為天氣乾旱加上兔子把新種的植物都吃光了。
What with the baby waking every two hours and the loud neighbors, nobody in the building slept well.
寶寶每兩小時就醒來一次，鄰居又很吵，整棟大樓的人都沒睡好。
What with rent going up and salaries staying the same, the young couple is struggling to save money.
房租一直漲，薪水卻沒變，這對年輕夫妻很難存到錢。
- between X and Y
similar structure; 'between work and family, I have no free time'
- because of
simpler and can introduce a single cause
- owing to
more formal; used in writing
文法句型
What with + [noun phrase] and + [noun phrase], + [result clause]
用法筆記
This phrase always introduces at least two reasons or causes. If you only have one cause, use 'because of' or 'due to' instead. The clause after the causes states the result or effect.
常見錯誤
what — 代名詞
1. a pronoun that stands for a thing or things you are thinking about but do not na
…的
指事物但不直接說出名稱
a pronoun that stands for a thing or things you are thinking about but do not name directly — for example, 'I know what you mean' means 'I know the thing that you mean.'
Luca showed his classmates what he had made in art class.
Luca 向同學展示他在美術課上做的東西。
what + clause as object of the verb
Indra could not remember what the teacher said about the exam.
Indra 記不起老師關於考試說了什麼。
What the children really wanted was a long holiday at the beach.
孩子們真正想要的是在海邊放一個長假。
Adina was surprised by what she discovered inside the old suitcase.
Adina 對她在舊手提箱裡發現的東西感到驚訝。
The officer asked what everyone had seen during the accident.
警方詢問大家在事故中看到了什麼。
- that which
more formal and less common in everyday speech
- whatever
suggests any thing or every thing, not a specific one
文法句型
what + clause
用法筆記
Unlike the relative pronoun 'which,' 'what' does not need a noun before it. 'What' already carries the meaning of 'the thing(s) that.'
常見錯誤
2. used to begin a statement that you are about to make, drawing attention to the k
…的是
引出接下來要說的重點
used to begin a statement that you are about to make, drawing attention to the key point or explanation that follows.
What I am trying to tell everyone is that we need to work together.
我想告訴大家的是，我們必須一起合作。
what + clause + is + that-clause
What the team needs most right now is an experienced leader.
團隊目前最需要的就是一位有經驗的領導者。
What happened was that the morning train left five minutes early.
事情是這樣的：早上的火車提早五分鐘開走了。
What Leo suggested during the meeting made a lot of sense to Amira.
Leo 在會議上提出的建議對 Amira 來說很有道理。
- the thing that
more literal and less emphatic than 'what' in this pattern
文法句型
what + clause + be + that-clause / noun phrase
用法筆記
Common in both speech and writing to focus attention on a single key idea. The pattern 'what + clause + be + that-clause' is especially frequent in explanations.
常見錯誤
3. a very short question that you say on its own when you want the person you are t
什麼？；再說
沒聽清楚時請對方重複
a very short question that you say on its own when you want the person you are talking with to repeat their words, because you did not catch everything clearly.
Yumi turned around and said, "What? I could not hear you over the noise."
Yumi 轉過頭說：「什麼？我聽不到你的聲音，太吵了。」
standalone 'What?' to ask for repetition
"You want me to clean what?" Diego asked, pointing at the messy garage.
「你要我清理什麼？」Diego 指著亂糟糟的車庫問。
Baraka leaned closer and asked, "What did you say about the exam results?"
Baraka 靠過去問：「你剛才說考試成績怎麼樣？」
"What?" Gita said, looking up from her book because she had not been paying attention.
「什麼？」Gita 從書本上抬起頭說，因為她剛才沒有在聽。
"Sorry, what?" Christopher asked when his friend spoke too softly.
「抱歉，什麼？」Christopher 聽到朋友說話太小聲時問道。
- Pardon?
more polite and formal
- Sorry?
common polite alternative in British English
- Come again?
very informal, mainly spoken
文法句型
What? (standalone)
what + clause (echo question)
用法筆記
Using a bare 'What?' can sound rude in formal or professional settings. 'Pardon?' or 'Sorry?' are more polite alternatives. The full question 'What did you say?' is neutral.