Definition

Any kind or amount of something; it can refer to all or any part of something without restriction.

Example

You can choose whatever you like from the menu.

Conversation

I can't decide what to eat for dinner tonight.

How about you just pick whatever sounds good to you?

You're right, I should just go with whatever I feel like.

Exactly! It's more fun that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

Used to refer to anything or everything, often in a dismissive way.

Example

You can choose whatever you like from the menu.

Conversation

I really don't care about the movie, so we can watch whatever you want.

That's cool! I was thinking about that new action film.

Sounds good to me — I’ll enjoy whatever we pick.

Definition

Anything or everything that is mentioned or referred to; used to indicate a lack of restriction or choice.

Example

You can choose whatever you like from the menu.

Conversation

What do you want to do today?

I don’t know, we could do whatever you feel like.

Sounds good to me! Maybe we can grab lunch first?

Root Explanation

Whatever → It is formed from "what" (from Old English *hwæt*, meaning what or which) and "-ever" (from Old English *æfre*, meaning ever or at any time). The word "whatever" means anything that is or can be, regardless of what it is.

Memory Tip

Think of 'what' to remember that 'whatever' refers to anything or everything, no matter what it is.

Visually Confused Words