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View synonyms for why
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
, plural whys.
- 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
/ waɪ /
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!
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Usage Note
See reason.
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Word History and Origins
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Word History and Origins
Origin of why1
Old English hwī; related to Old Norse hvī, Gothic hveileiks what kind of, Latin quī
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