The internet is full of abbreviations and shortened forms, and "what’s" is one of the most common. But have you ever stopped to think about what it really means, and where it comes from?
What’s the Short Story?
"What’s" is simply a contraction of "what is" or "what has." It’s a casual way of asking a question, often used in speech and informal writing. For example, instead of saying "What is that sound?" you might ask "What’s that sound?"
This contraction has been around for centuries. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, "what’s" can be traced back to at least the 1600s.
Beyond the Abbreviation
"What’s" can also be used in a few other ways:
- Asking about something general: "What’s going on?" is a common question used to inquire about the current situation.
- Expressing interest: "What’s new?" is a way to ask someone about recent events in their life.
- Idiomatic usage: "What’s it to you?" is a dismissive way of saying that someone else’s opinion doesn’t matter.
The Benefits of "What’s"
"What’s" is a handy shortcut that can make our communication more natural and efficient. It’s a cornerstone of informal language and adds a casual touch to our writing and speech.
The "What’s" of "What’s"
So, next time you find yourself typing "what’s," take a moment to appreciate this little contraction. It’s a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of language, and a handy tool for keeping our communication clear and concise.
