The unassuming contraction "what’s" pops up in our daily conversations all the time. But have you ever stopped to think about what it really means, and how it functions in a sentence? Buckle up, grammar enthusiasts, because we’re diving deep into the world of "what’s."
Shorthand Superstar
At its core, "what’s" is simply a shortcut for "what is" or "what has." It’s a contraction, formed by merging the two words and replacing the missing letters with an apostrophe. This little contraction makes our speech and writing flow more smoothly, saving us precious syllables and speeding things up.
Here are some examples of "what’s" in action:
- "What’s that delicious smell?" (What is that delicious smell?)
- "What’s the capital of France?" (What is the capital of France?)
- "She’s wondering what’s taking so long." (She’s wondering what has taken so long.)
Beyond the Basics
"What’s" can also be used in a few other ways:
- Informal Inquiries: "What’s up?" is a common greeting asking about someone’s general well-being.
- Expressing Disbelief: "What’s the matter with you?" can show surprise or disapproval.
- Idiomatic Usage: Phrases like "What’s the difference?" or "What’s done is done" use "what’s" in a more idiomatic way.
Knowing When to Use "What’s"
"What’s" is generally considered informal language. While it’s perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation, it might not be suitable for formal writing situations like academic papers or business reports. In those cases, sticking to "what is" or "what has" might be a better choice.
The Allure of Contractions
Contractions like "what’s" add a touch of casualness and spoken language feel to our writing. They can make our communication more natural and engaging. But remember, there’s a time and place for everything. Use "what’s" strategically to add flavor to your informal writing, but be mindful of maintaining formality when needed.
So, the next time you use "what’s," take a moment to appreciate this little linguistic gem. It’s a handy shortcut that keeps our communication flowing smoothly!
