B1conjunction 1K

Whenever

UK /["/wenˈevə(r)/"]/ US /["/wenˈevər/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

at any time that; on any occasion that

Listen to definition

In simple words: every time that something happens

Examples

• You can ask for help whenever you need it.
• Whenever she comes, she brings a friend.
• The roof leaks whenever it rains.
• We try to help **whenever possible**.
• ‘When do you need it by?’ ‘Saturday or Sunday. Whenever.’
• It's not urgent—we can do it next week or whenever.

Usage notes

Use 'whenever' to indicate a time something occurs. It's suitable for both spoken and written English, but avoid in very formal documents.

Grammar pattern

whenever + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'when' and 'never' together - it means any time it occurs.

Collocations

• whenever you want
• whenever I see
• whenever it happens

Synonyms

• anytime
• at any time
• every time

Antonyms

• never

Common mistakes

• Using 'whenever' with a single event instead of repeated actions.
• Confusing 'whenever' with 'whatever' in casual speech.