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UK//wɒts ðə ˈmætə//US//wɑts ðə ˈmætər//

Meaning of What's the matter

A question asking about someone's problems or concerns.

In simple words: What's wrong or what's the problem?

What's the matter in a sentence

  • When I saw her crying, I asked, 'What's the matter?'
  • He looked upset, so I gently asked, 'What's the matter?'
  • When he didn't show up, I texted him, 'What's the matter?'
  • During the meeting, it was clear something was wrong; I asked, 'What's the matter?'
  • Seeing my friend pale and quiet, I couldn't help but ask, 'What's the matter?'

How to use What's the matter

Use this phrase to ask someone about their issues or discomfort. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but avoid in very casual situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone greeting

Memory hint

Think of 'matter' as 'matters of the heart' - asking if something is troubling someone.

Related words

Collocations with What's the matter

Synonyms for What's the matter

Common mistakes with What's the matter

  • 'What's the matter' is often confused with 'What's up' which is more casual.
  • Some learners forget to use it only when someone looks upset or unwell.
  • Confused with 'What's wrong?' which is more direct and sometimes impolite.

Compare What's the matter with What's wrong, What's the problem, Are you okay

What's the matter appears in

What's the matter in other languages

More chunks like What's the matter

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Frequently asked questions about What's the matter

What does What's the matter mean?

What's wrong or what's the problem?

What is the definition of What's the matter?

A question asking about someone's problems or concerns.

How do you use What's the matter in a sentence?

When I saw her crying, I asked, 'What's the matter?'

Can you give another example of What's the matter?

He looked upset, so I gently asked, 'What's the matter?'

What are synonyms for What's the matter?

Common alternatives include What's wrong?, What's the problem?, Is something bothering you?, Are you okay?.

What words go with What's the matter?

It commonly pairs with What's the problem, What's the issue, What's wrong.

What are common mistakes when using What's the matter?

'What's the matter' is often confused with 'What's up' which is more casual. Some learners forget to use it only when someone looks upset or unwell. Confused with 'What's wrong?' which is more direct and sometimes impolite.

How do you pronounce What's the matter?

US: //wɑts ðə ˈmætər//, UK: //wɒts ðə ˈmætə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use What's the matter?

Use this phrase to ask someone about their issues or discomfort. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but avoid in very casual situations.