Why ever

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Emotional Emphasis

Use 'why ever' to express strong feelings like shock or disbelief in rhetorical questions.

Illustration for Emotional Emphasis

Why ever would they cancel the show without warning?

Pro Tip 2/3

Rhetorical Question

Asks a question not expecting a literal answer, but to make a point or express confusion.

Illustration for Rhetorical Question

Why ever did he think that was a good idea?

Pro Tip 3/3

Stress & Intonation

Place stress on 'ever' and use expressive intonation for added emphasis when speaking.

Illustration for Stress & Intonation

Why ever did you say that?

Visual representation of the word "Why ever"

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