🇺🇸 How to say

“why” in English

why
Illustration of "why" in a English cultural setting
A young tourist stands on a crowded city sidewalk, looking up at a skyscraper with a puzzled expression. She turns to her friend and points at the building, clearly asking a question about its unusual architecture.

Usage note

Use 'why' to ask for a reason or cause.

Examples

  • Why is the bus late?

    Why is the bus late?

  • Why are you going downtown?

    Why are you going downtown?

  • Why is the park closed?

    Why is the park closed?

Quick check

What does "why" mean?

  • A. why
  • B. goodbye
  • C. hello
  • D. thank you

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