Whenever

Definition

Whenever is a conjunction and adverb used to indicate "at any time" or "every time" something occurs. It can also introduce a condition or situation where time is flexible or uncertain.

Parts of Speech

• Conjunction
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɛnˈɛv.ɚ/
• Respelling: wen-EV-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wɛnˈɛv.ə/
• Respelling: wen-EV-uh

Etymology

The word "whenever" originated in Middle English as a combination of "when" and "ever." It is derived from Old English "hwænne" (when) and "æfre" (ever), evolving into its modern form to indicate time conditions flexibly or repeatedly.

Derivatives

• Wheneverness (noun, rare)
• Everwhen (archaic form)
• Wheneverly (adverb, rare)
• Whenever-it-may-be (phrase)
• Unwhenever (noun, non-standard)

Synonyms

• Anytime
• Every time
• At whatever time

Antonyms

• Never
• No time
• None

Usage

The conjunction "whenever" introduces clauses indicating flexible or repeated times. For example, "Call me whenever you need help."

As an adverb, it can be used to imply any instance of time. For example, "You can visit whenever."

Related Terms

• Whenever: A term indicating any time or flexibility in timing.
• Whenever possible: A common phrase emphasizing conditionality.
• Whenever it suits: An expression suggesting adaptability or convenience.

Detailed Definitions

Conjunction

• At any or every time that: Indicates flexibility or repetition in time-related conditions.
  • Example: "She feels happy whenever she listens to music."
• On the occasion that: Refers to a specific time when an event occurs.
  • Example: "Whenever he visits, he brings a gift."

Adverb

• At any time: Describes an unspecified or open time.
  • Example: "Come visit me whenever."