The internet is full of abbreviations and shortened forms, and "what’s" is definitely one of the most common. But have you ever stopped to think about what it actually means and how it works?
What’s the Short Story?
"What’s" is a contraction, which means it’s a shortened version of two words. In this case, it’s short for "what is" or "what has." It’s a super casual way to ask a question, and you’ll hear it used in all sorts of situations, from asking someone’s name ("What’s your name?") to finding out what’s going on ("What’s up?").
Beyond the Contraction
"What’s" can be a little more versatile than a simple contraction though. Sometimes, it can be used on its own to ask a question, especially in informal contexts like text messages or chats with friends. For instance, someone might send you a message that just says "What’s?" and you’d understand that they’re asking what’s going on with you.
Knowing When to "What’s"
While "what’s" is perfectly acceptable in casual conversation, it’s not always suitable for formal settings. In a job interview or a written essay, for example, it’s best to stick with the full form "what is" or "what has."
So, What’s the Big Deal?
Understanding "what’s" is a great way to get a feel for the nuances of everyday English. It’s a handy contraction that can make your speech more natural, but it’s important to know when to use it appropriately.
Do you have any other favorite contractions? Share them in the comments below!
