VocabDictionary

whichever

/wɪtʃˈɛvər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Specifying any one of a number of things or people without restriction, depending on choice or circumstances.

Example Sentences:
  • You can take whichever seat you prefer.
  • Whichever route we choose, we are bound to hit heavy traffic.
2.pronoun

The one or ones that; any thing or things that.

Example Sentences:
  • There are two cakes left; have whichever you like.
  • Whichever of you broke the window needs to confess.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “whichever”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'which-ever', combining 'which' (Old English 'hwīlch', referring to what one out of a number) and 'ever' (Old English 'ǣfre', meaning at any time or in any case), to signify infinite choice among alternatives.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of it as 'which' combined with 'ever' option you choose: whichever one you pick is fine!

Frequently Asked Questions About “whichever

1. What is the meaning of “whichever” in English?

In English, whichever (adjective) is defined as: “Specifying any one of a number of things or people without restriction, depending on choice or circumstances.”.

2. How do you use “whichever” in a sentence?

You can take whichever seat you prefer.

3. What are English synonyms of “whichever”?

Common synonyms include:any,whatever,either,any one

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “whichever”?

Derived from Middle English 'which-ever', combining 'which' (Old English 'hwīlch', referring to what one out of a number) and 'ever' (Old English 'ǣfre', meaning at any time or in any case), to signify infinite choice among alternatives.