Whether

Definition

Whether refers to introducing alternatives or expressing a doubt or choice between two possibilities.

Parts of Speech

• Conjunction

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛð.ɚ/
• Respelling: WETH-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛð.ə/
• Respelling: WETH-uh

Etymology

The word "whether" originates from Old English "hwæþer," meaning "which of two," derived from Proto-Germanic "*hwaþaraz" and Proto-Indo-European "*kwo-tero-" meaning "which of two."

Derivatives

• Whether or not (phrase)
• Whatsoever (adjective, related)
• Whichever (pronoun, related)
• Whethering (noun, archaic)
• Wheresoever (adverb, archaic)

Synonyms

• If
• Either
• Which

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The conjunction "whether" is used to present options or introduce a clause expressing doubt, as in "I am unsure whether to stay or leave." It can also be used in phrases like "whether or not" to express a lack of preference or condition.

Related Terms

• If: A conditional word used to introduce a clause.
• Which: Refers to one or more items out of a set.
• Either: Refers to one or the other of two possibilities.

Detailed Definitions

Conjunction

• Expressing a choice between two alternatives: Refers to presenting options or possibilities.
  • Example: "She couldn't decide whether to go to the party or stay home."
• Introducing a doubt or condition: Refers to expressing uncertainty or potential scenarios.
  • Example: "He asked whether it would rain tomorrow."
• Used in "whether or not": Refers to a condition or situation regardless of alternatives.
  • Example: "We will go hiking whether it rains or not."