What/s wrong/What's the matter

Question

Would it be ok to say "What's wrong with you?" when someone is ill? I heard that the best question in this situation would be "What's them matter?" Is that right? I have also heard "What's wrong?" though. Pragmatically speaking, which one is more acceptable in said situation? Please let me know.

What's the matter

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

apatzinguenseWould it be ok to say "What's wrong with you?" when someone is ill?

Among friends, that is common. You wouldn't normally ask a stranger that.

apatzinguenseI heard that the best question in this situation would be "What's them matter?" Is that right?

It's "What's the matter", not "them". That is a rather broad question which does not specifically ask about health, unless you are already on the subject. "What's the matter with you?" is more like it.

apatzinguenseI have also heard "What's wrong?"

Again, that is not specific enough unless you are already on the subject.

apatzinguensePragmatically speaking, which one is more acceptable in said situation?

It depends. It is best to be tactful and delicate. Maybe "What did the doctor say?" or "How are you feeling?"

What/s wrong/What's the matter

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬