Whatsoever

Definition

"Whatsoever" is a term used for emphasis after a noun or pronoun to indicate "at all" or "of any kind".

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌwʌtsoʊˈɛvər/
• Respelling: wut-soh-EV-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌwɒtsoʊˈɛvə/
• Respelling: wot-soh-EV-uh

In both American and British English, "whatsoever" is a compound word and is pronounced with the stress on the third syllable. The main difference lies in the vowel sound of the first syllable; the American pronunciation uses a short "u" sound as in "cut," while the British pronunciation uses a short "o" sound as in "cot." The "soever" part is pronounced similarly in both accents, with a slight variation in the final "r" sound.

Etymology

"Whatsoever" is derived from the Middle English "what so ever", where "what" signifies "which" or "that", "so" amplifies the meaning, and "ever" adds emphasis. Over time, these words combined to form "whatsoever", intensifying the original meaning.

Derivatives

• Whosoever
• Wheresoever
• Howsoever
• Whomsoever
• Whencesoever

Synonyms

• Whatever
• At all
• Any

Antonyms

• None
• None
• None

Usage

"Whatsoever" is often used to add emphasis, especially in negative statements or questions, suggesting a total or absolute scope or extent.

Related Terms

• What
• Ever
• So
• Whichever
• Emphasis

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• Used for emphasis after a noun or pronoun to indicate an unrestricted or undefined extent or degree.‍
• Example: He has no respect whatsoever for other people's property.

• To any extent or degree at all.‍
• Example: There was nothing whatsoever left in the refrigerator.