Why

Definition

Why is an adverb and conjunction used to ask for reasons, causes, or purposes. It is also a noun in specific contexts, referring to the reason or explanation for something.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Conjunction
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /waɪ/
• Respelling: WYE

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /waɪ/
• Respelling: WYE

Etymology

The word "why" originates from Old English "hwȳ," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "hwi" and Proto-Indo-European "kwi," meaning "for what reason." It has been used since early English to inquire about causes or justifications.

Derivatives

• Why-ever (adverb)
• Whys (plural noun)
• Why not (phrase)
• Whyso (adverb, archaic)
• Whyfore (noun, archaic)

Synonyms

• Reason
• Cause
• Purpose

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "why" is commonly used to ask for reasons or justifications, such as "Why did you do that?" As a noun, it can refer to the reason for something, as in "The whys of their decision were not clear."

Related Terms

• How: Refers to the manner in which something occurs.
• What: Refers to the specific nature or identity of something.
• Wherefore: An archaic term meaning "for what reason."

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• For what reason or purpose: Used to ask for an explanation or cause.
  • Example: "Why are you late?"

Conjunction

• For what reason: Used to introduce a clause explaining a cause or purpose.
  • Example: "I don’t know why he left so suddenly."

Noun

• The reason or explanation for something: Refers to the cause or justification.
  • Example: "The whys behind their actions remain a mystery."