whether
gb/wˈɛðɚ/ us/wˈɛðɚ/
B1
English
~ 300
Senses
0 senses
conjunction
B1
relation
1
introducing alternatives or possibilities
Used to talk about two or more choices, or when you are not sure about something.
Usage pattern:
whether [clause] or [clause]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'whether' with 'if'. 'Whether' is preferred when there are two clear options or in formal contexts.
Synonyms
if (Often interchangeable in indirect questions, but 'if' is more common in informal speech and less formal writing.)
Collocations
whether or not
|whether to
|whether it is
|whether she will
Themes
grammar
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- I don't know whether she will come to the party.
- We need to decide whether to take the train or the bus.
- He asked whether I had finished the report.
- They discussed whether it was worth the risk.
Learner examples
- I don't know whether it will rain.
- She is thinking about whether to go.
- We must choose whether to stay or leave.
- He is not sure whether she likes him.
Grammar
Dictionary form
whether
IPA
GB/wˈɛðɚ/
US/wˈɛðɚ/
Syllables & stress
wheth - er (2 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (wheth)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: whether
- Plural: whethers
Word family
Forms
whethers
noun
Related words
if
conjunction A2
Expressions
whether ... or ...
1/wˈɛðɚ | ˈɔɹ |/
fixed phrase
presenting two choices
Used to show two possible things or situations.
Examples
- Whether you like it or not, we have to follow the rules.
- We will continue whether it rains or shines.
whether or not
1/wˈɛðɚ ˈɔɹ nˈɑt/
fixed phrase
regardless of the condition
Used to say that something will happen in all situations, no matter what happens.
Examples
- I’m going to the concert whether or not you come with me.
- She will finish the project whether or not she gets help.