Words with -ever Rules

Study the sentences: 1) There will be a lot of traffic whatever route we take. 2) We have to finish, however long it takes. Why do we use what/how/etc. + ever?

• To emphasise that the specific time, person, etc. doesn‘t matter

• As a reply indicating a reluctance to discuss sth, often implying indifference or disrespect

• To emphasise a lack of restriction

Study the sentences: 1) Today people can watch whatever they want whenever they want. 2) Sit wherever you like. Why do we use what/how/etc. + ever?

• To emphasise that the specific time, person, etc. doesn‘t matter

• As a reply indicating a reluctance to discuss sth, often implying indifference or disrespect

• To emphasise a lack of restriction

Study the sentences: “It’s about time to start planning our next holiday.” “Yeah, whatever.” Why do we use what/how/etc. + ever?

• To emphasise that the specific time, person, etc. doesn‘t matter

• As a reply indicating a reluctance to discuss sth, often implying indifference or disrespect

• To emphasise a lack of restriction

Study the sentences: 1) Whoever would have thought he‘d win top prize? 2) Whatever is the matter with you? Why do we use what/how/etc. + ever?

• To emphasise that the specific time, person, etc. doesn‘t matter

• To emphasise that you are surprised, confused or slightly angry

• To emphasise a lack of restriction

We sometimes use which/how/etc. + ever in short answers. Examples: 1) “I‘ll call you tomorrow or the day after.” “OK, whenever.” 2) “Do you fancy going to the cinema or to the theatre?” “Whichever.” Is that formal or informal style?

• Formal

• Semi-formal

• Informal

We use which/how/etc. + ever in informal style. Examples: 1) When you’ve read the book, just give it to Susan or Tom or whoever. (=it doesn’t matter) 2) Londoners dress more individually than people in Paris or wherever. (=any place/not a specific place)

• True

• False