Wherever
UK /["/weərˈevə(r)/"]/US /["/werˈevər/"]/
Definition
in any place
In simple words: In or to any place.
Examples
- Sit wherever you like.
- He comes from Boula, **wherever that may be** *(= I don't know where it is)*.
- Wherever she goes, there are crowds of people waiting to see her.
- Use wholegrain breakfast cereals **wherever possible**.
- tourists from Spain, France or wherever
Usage notes
Use 'wherever' to indicate any location. It's best for informal or neutral conversations, but can also fit in formal writing. Avoid in overly formal settings.
Grammar pattern
wherever + subject + verb
Memory hint
Think of 'wherever' as 'where' and 'ever' combined — you can go anywhere, anytime!
Collocations
- go wherever
- do whatever
- wherever you go
- live wherever
- wherever it leads
Synonyms
- everywhere
- whenever
Antonyms
- nowhere
- anywhere except
Common mistakes
- Using 'wherever' instead of 'where' in direct questions.
- Confusing 'wherever' with 'wherever else' and overcomplicating sentences.
- Neglecting to include a verb after 'wherever'.