why

noun
UK: /waɪ/
US: /waɪ/

  1. The reason for which something is done or exists.

    1. I don't know why she is sad. [ ] [ ]
    2. The question is why did they leave so suddenly without saying goodbye. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

cause reason purpose
why adverb

  1. Used to ask about a reason or purpose.

    1. Why are you late? [ ] [ ]
    2. Tell me why you did not complete your homework last night. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to express surprise or disbelief.

    1. Why, that's amazing news! [ ] [ ]
    2. Why, I never expected to see you here after all this time. [ ] [ ]
why interjection

  1. Used as an interjection to express surprise, doubt, or mild protest.

    1. Why, of course I'll help. [ ] [ ]
    2. Why, I haven't seen you in ages, it is nice to see you again! [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The phonetic transcription of "why" is /waɪ/ in British English and /waɪ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "why": cause, reason, purpose.

Example usage of "why": "I don't know why she is sad.". More examples on the page.