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

Emotional Emphasis

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

Rhetorical Question

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

Use 'why ever' to genuinely ask someone's rationale or motive in a perplexing situation.

Use 'why ever' to prompt a detailed explanation or start a discussion about someone’s actions.