Basic Details
Word: Wherefore
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: For what reason or purpose.
Synonyms: Why, for what reason, for what purpose
Antonyms: Therefore, hence
Idioms and Phrases
- Wherefore art thou: A famous phrase from Romeo and Juliet, meaning "Why are you?". Example: "When she asked him wherefore art thou so sad, he explained his troubles."
- Nowhere to be found: Used when someone or something is absent or missing. Example: "After searching the entire house, she found her keys were nowhere to be found."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The detective asked, "Wherefore did you choose to run away instead of staying?"
Example 2: In her letter, she wrote, "I wonder wherefore you have not replied yet."
Example 3: The children asked their teacher, "Wherefore is the sky blue?"
Fun Fact
Did you know that "wherefore" often gets misunderstood? Many people think it means "where," but it actually means "why." This confusion comes from its use in Shakespeare's plays!
Famous Quote
"Wherefore art thou Romeo?" - William Shakespeare, from Romeo and Juliet.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "wherefore" mean?
a) Where
b) When
c) For what reason
d) How
Answer: c) For what reason
2. Which of these is a synonym of "wherefore"?
a) How
b) Why
c) When
d) Who
Answer: b) Why
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "wherefore"?
a) Therefore
b) Often
c) Seldom
d) Anywhere
Answer: a) Therefore
4. Which sentence uses "wherefore" correctly?
a) Wherefore are we going today?
b) I understand wherefore you are upset.
c) She asked, "Wherefore is the cat?"
d) They wondered wherefore the sun shines.
Answer: b) I understand wherefore you are upset.
5. Which idiom includes the word "wherefore"?
a) Wherefore art thou
b) Nowhere to be found
c) Out of the blue
d) Like a fish out of water
Answer: a) Wherefore art thou
