The internet is full of abbreviations and slang, and "what’s" is a common one you might encounter in chats, online forums, and even text messages. But what exactly does "what’s" mean, and where did it come from?
What’s the abbreviation for?
"What’s" is simply a shortened version of "what is" or "what has." It’s a contraction that helps us type faster and write in a more informal way. Here are some examples of how "what’s" is used:
- What’s that over there? (This is short for "What is that over there?")
- What’s been going on? (Short for "What has been going on?")
- What’s the weather like today? (Short for "What is the weather like today?")
Is "what’s" proper grammar?
In formal writing, it’s always best to use the full phrase "what is" or "what has." However, "what’s" is perfectly acceptable in casual settings like online chats, text messages, or friendly emails.
Where did "what’s" come from?
Contractions like "what’s" have been around for centuries in spoken English. They became even more common with the rise of informal writing styles like texting and online communication.
Is "what’s" pronounced differently?
"What’s" can be pronounced in a couple of ways, depending on your accent. In some regions, it’s pronounced "hwats" or "wats," while others might say "wŏts" or even "wɔts."
So, what’s the takeaway?
"What’s" is a handy abbreviation for informal communication. It helps us write faster and keeps things casual. Just remember that it’s not appropriate for formal writing.
