whatsoever
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //wɒtˈsoʊˌɛvər//
KK: /wɑtˈsoʊˌɛvər/
adjective
Definition
Used to emphasize a lack of limitation or restriction; it means 'at all' or 'in any way'.
Example
I have no interest whatsoever in that movie.
Conversation
I don't think I can trust him with my secrets at all.
Yeah, he seems to have no loyalty whatsoever.
Exactly! It's like he doesn't care about anyone's feelings.
True, I wouldn't share anything personal with him either.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
any
all
every
Antonyms
none
no
neither
pronoun
Definition
Used to emphasize a lack of restriction or limitation; anything at all.
Example
You can choose whatsoever you like from the menu.
Conversation
I really don't have any plans for the weekend.
Me neither! It feels like there’s whatsoever to do.
Should we just hang out and relax at home then?
Root Explanation
Whatsoever → It is formed from "what" (from Old English "hwæt", meaning what or which) and "soever" (from Old English "swa" meaning so or in this way, combined with "ever" meaning at any time). The word "whatsoever" means anything at all or in any way, emphasizing the totality of the subject in question.
Memory Tip
Think of 'what' as asking about anything and 'soever' as meaning in any way — together, they help you remember that 'whatsoever' refers to anything at all.
Visually Confused Words
whoever
whosomever
whomsoever
whensoever