This is our take on the word "whatever" and it's meaning in a conversation. It is considered a slang term in the context that we've have included in this assignment. We are explaining the term to someone who is new to our country and doesn't know why someone has just said "whatever" to him, as it had made no sense:
"Whatever" is a word that takes on meaning by the way it is said. If someone asks what you would like to eat for lunch and you say "whatever", it generally means that you really don't care one way or another. "Whatever" can also be used in a joking matter. If someone is teasing you, you may just say "whatever" to acknowledge what they said, but not engage in further conversation. It can also show that you are slightly hurt by what they are saying and they will hopefully stop. If you are in an argument with someone and you do not like or agree with what they said to you, you may say "whatever" until you find the words to defend yourself; or else to just get away from the conversation and the person.
The attitude in your voice or the emotion you put forward is how the word "whatever" will be interepreted by those around you. Although it is a single and simple word, it can make a huge statement in the point you are trying to make.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I don't see another post to respond to so, I will to our own, again. I liked defining the word "whatever" because it's one that I say. It does depend on the way you say it and the situation you're in, unlike other slang terms, you know what meaning they are conveying to the recipient. However, my kids don't use whatever that much. I think it may be because, whatever I say is old-fashioned to them. Do you think if I swore like a sailor, that would turn them off to swearing too? I probably won't try that one out though.
ReplyDeleteI really like that your group chose the word "whatever" because we use it so often in our culture. I also enjoyed the examples you gave for how we use the words and the multiple meanings that are tied to "whatever". The attitude definitely determines our meaning for the word "whatever" so I am glad your group decided to include that. Good job!
ReplyDeleteI know that I say "whatever" in many different situations and tones and they each have a different meaning. I think that "whatever" also goes along with "sure" as in "sure, whatever...". I know I use that more than I should and express what and how I am feeling instead of trying to always please the other person.
ReplyDeleteI love the word 'whatever' it covers a multitude of feelings! I can say it grumpily to my fiance, happily to my sister and casually to the checkout employees! I guess I didn't really put much thought into it before now! You guys explained it really well, and you're so right the attitude behind it counts. I also liked the way your audience was someone from a different country, I wish I'd have thought of that! :)
ReplyDeleteWow! I really enjoyed how you explained the word but also gave many examples of how it is used. The context was wonderful in the presence of how people use this term in everyday form. It has so many meanings that I find it to be universal term.
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you explained the slang term whatever. Whatever is a hard term to explain because of the attitude and emotion behind the term may change the meaning. You described the slang term very well, but I still felt that it lacked a true definition. Whatever could also be defined as: yes, go away, anything. I think that you have defined the hardest part of this slang word.
ReplyDeleteVery nice job!! You are absolutley correct about the tone and emotion in your voice when saying whatever will determine whats it true meaning is. I use this term when arguing with someone and not being able to come up with a good defense line, or I might not care what they are yelling at me about so I will just say whatever in a very mean, rude manner. Yes, that is very horrible of me to admit, but we have all had them fights with moms, dads, boyfriends, brother, sister, etc and I think thats when people use it most. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI have to say that when I hear the word whatever, I cringe. It does seem rather dated and reminds me of my mother and how she used to say on a regular basis, "You go girl!" not good. Although, when I am having a conversation with someone and they answer me with the word whatever I am immediately defensive. By using this term I feel they are discounting what I am saying and don't care about the conversation one way or the other. I don't like it and try not to use it.
ReplyDeleteI like how your definition of the term explores the complexities of the definition and how it's used. You certainly did an admirable job here overall. :)
ReplyDelete