Word & grammar

Question

Can anyone please tell me when to use whenever and what-so-ever? Also, is it always the case that I've to use past tense after "if". How about "before"? Thanks!

Haoqide · Accepted Answer

Hi!

Nope, you don't have to always use past tense when you use "if" or "before".

For example, "If you go to the store, buy some milk." or "Before you go to the store, make sure we don't need more milk."

Ok, the other question.

"Whenever" is a time-word (if that makes sense), so you use it like, "Whenever I go to the mall, I end up buying everything I see." or "Whenever you get a chance, would you write a letter for me?" So, it has to do with an unspecified time. Another example, "Whenever he wasn't feeling well, he would just sleep."

"Whatsoever" or "what-so-ever" (I'm not sure on whether it's hyphenated or not) are used to make the point that something is definitely not a certain way. For example, if somebody asks you if you know where Bob is, and you have absolutely no idea where he is, you can say, "I have no idea whatsoever where he is." Or, if somebody asks you to lend them some money, you can say, "I have no money whatsoever."

I hope that helps!

Godivaluvu · Answer

Thanks for you help. HAve more questions (basically anybody can help if he/she wish).

So, when do i use past tense for if and before?

I meant to ask whatever instead of whenever. Can i you please tell me how to use whatever??

Thanks

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