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Translate files Wherefore
/ˈwɛər.fɔːr/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The reason or cause for something.
The wherefore of his actions was revealed in the final chapter of the book.
The origin or rationale behind a particular situation.
She sought to understand the wherefore of the committee's decision.
adverb
For what reason or purpose.
She asked wherefore he had decided to leave so abruptly.
An archaic term often found in literary texts, used to inquire about the reason behind an action.
The question remains, wherefore do we pursue such goals when they seem unattainable?
Etymology
Middle English, from where + fore.
Common Phrases and Expressions
wherefore art thou:
why are you; it is a famous phrase from Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'.
wherefore the delay:
why is there a delay; questioning the reason for a hold-up.
wherefore goest thou:
why are you going; an inquiry about one's destination.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
A formal way to ask why.
In his speech, he used 'wherefore' to sound more poetic.
An old-fashioned term used humorously in modern contexts.
She dramatically exclaimed, 'Wherefore must we endure this?' during the meeting.