Definition

This word is used to ask about or refer to the person or people that own something or are associated with something.

Example

Whose book is this on the table?

Conversation

I met someone at the party last night, but I can't remember whose friend they were.

Oh, was it that tall guy? I think he was with Sarah.

Yeah, that sounds right! I wonder whose idea it was to throw the party.

I heard it was Jason's idea. He loves hosting gatherings.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A word used to ask or talk about the person or people that something belongs to.

Example

Whose book is this on the table?

Conversation

I met someone interesting at the party last night.

Oh really? Whose friend were they?

I think they mentioned they were with Sarah.

Root Explanation

The word 'whose' originates from Old English 'hwæs', which is a genitive form of 'who', meaning 'of whom' or 'belonging to whom'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'whose' as asking about ownership or belonging — it helps you remember that it refers to something that belongs to someone.

Visually Confused Words