"whatever" vs "whatsoever"

Question

"whatever" vs "whatsoever"

Both 'whatever' and 'whatsoever' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Whatever' is more commonly used in everyday language to express a lack of restriction or limitation, while 'whatsoever' is used for emphasis to strengthen a negative statement or question.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

It is used in everyday language to indicate a lack of restriction or limitation. It can be used in questions, statements, or as a response.

Examples:

You can choose whatever you like.
Whatever happens, I'll be there for you.
I'll eat whatever you cook.
Whatever the reason, it doesn't matter.
Whatever you decide, I'll support you.

Alternatives:

anything
everything
nothing
whichever
whoever

It is used to emphasize a negative statement or question. It is often used in formal or written language to add emphasis.

Examples:

I have no interest whatsoever in that topic.
There is no reason whatsoever for his behavior.
Do you have any idea whatsoever what happened?
She has no intention whatsoever of changing her mind.
There is no evidence whatsoever to support that claim.

Alternatives:

at all
in the least
in any way
in the slightest
in the least bit

Answer 1

whatever

The word 'whatever' is a common and correct term used to express a lack of restriction or limitation.

Answer 2

whatsoever

The term 'whatsoever' is correct and is used for emphasis to strengthen a negative statement or question.

"whatever" vs "whatsoever"

whatever

whatsoever

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