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Whenever Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whenever

[wenevər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Conjunction

used to introduce a situation in which a particular thing always happens or is true

At any or every time that. Whenever I try to call her, she doesn't answer the phone. I feel happy whenever I see a rainbow.

Synonyms

any time, each time, every time.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
whenever

Use this word when indicating that something happens at any time something else happens without specifying a particular time. Often it can introduce subordinate clauses.

  • You can call me whenever you need help.
  • Whenever it rains, the streets get flooded.
every time

Indicates that something happens on all occasions or whenever a specific condition is met, with a bit more frequency implied than 'each time'.

  • Every time I see him, he is reading a book.
  • He gets nervous every time he has to speak in public.
each time

Used to emphasize that something happens on every single occasion that a specific event happens.

  • Each time I visit my grandmother, she makes my favorite cookies.
  • She smiled at me each time I told a joke.
any time

This phrase denotes an unspecified or general time, usually indicating permission or availability.

  • Feel free to stop by any time.
  • You can come to my office at any time.

Examples of usage

  • Whenever I go to the beach, I collect seashells.
  • I smile whenever I hear my favorite song playing on the radio.
Context #2 | Adverb

used to emphasize that something happens on every occasion or as often as is possible or suitable

At any time or every time that something happens. You can ask for help whenever you need it. He always comes to work early, whenever he can.

Synonyms

at any time, on every occasion, whenever you like.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
whenever

Used to talk about any time or every time something happens. It's often used to indicate a regular occurrence or a repeated situation.

  • You can visit me whenever you want.
  • Whenever it rains, the garden looks beautiful.
whenever you like

Similar to 'whenever,' but specifically emphasizes the flexibility and freedom for the other person to choose the time that suits them best. It conveys a sense of permissiveness.

  • You can start the project whenever you like.
  • Come over for dinner whenever you like; you are always welcome.
at any time

Used for indicating that no specific time is necessary, meaning it can happen at any unspecified moment. It often implies flexibility and convenience.

  • You can call me at any time.
  • Feel free to drop by the office at any time.
on every occasion

More formal and used to specify that something happens each and every time a particular event occurs. It tends to emphasize consistency.

  • On every occasion we meet, he has something interesting to share.
  • She brings a gift on every occasion she visits.

Examples of usage

  • Feel free to call me whenever you want.
  • She is ready to help you whenever necessary.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • In English grammar, 'whenever' is categorized as a subordinating conjunction that introduces a dependent clause.
  • It can create complex sentences by linking an event to an unspecified time, making communication more nuanced.
  • The word can also function as a time adverb and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Cultural Usage

  • In popular culture, phrases like 'whenever you feel like it' capture the essence of personal freedom and spontaneity.
  • It often appears in song lyrics and poetry, conveying themes of love and longing over time.
  • Cultural nuances can affect how the word is used—some cultures might emphasize urgency more than others.

Psychology

  • 'Whenever' can reflect an individual's desire for control over their time and activities, linked to personal autonomy.
  • In cognitive psychology, the frequent use of flexible time cues like 'whenever' can reduce anxiety related to strict schedules.
  • It plays a role in social interactions, influencing how people express willingness and openness to spontaneity.

Literature

  • The use of 'whenever' in literature can create an atmosphere of timelessness, capturing fleeting moments in character development.
  • Many authors use 'whenever' to evoke nostalgia, reflecting on memories that aren’t bound by time.
  • It appears frequently in narratives that explore themes of fate, choice, and the passage of time.

Origin of 'whenever'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English, combining 'when' meaning 'at what time' and 'ever' meaning 'always'.
  • It has been used in the English language since at least the 14th century to indicate time flexibility.
  • The suffix 'ever' adds emphasis to the uncertainty of the time referenced in the sentence.

The word 'whenever' originated from the combination of 'when' and 'ever', with 'when' dating back to Middle English and 'ever' being Old English in origin. The term has been in use since the 14th century, evolving to its current form as a conjunction and adverb to indicate time or frequency of occurrence.

See also: when.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,683, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.