What gives Meaning and Definition
What gives
Pronunciation
/ˈwɒt ˈɡɪvz/
Part of Speech
Interjection
Definition
An expression of surprise, confusion, or skepticism, often used to ask for clarification or to express one’s lack of understanding.
Examples
- Person A: “I just won the lottery!” Person B: “What gives?”
- Person A: “This statement is true.” Person B: “What gives, that’s crazy!”
Synonyms
- What’s going on
- What’s up
Antonyms
- Okay
- Got it
Etymology
What gives is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 20th century, likely derived from the phrase “what gives you the right.”
Usage Notes
This expression is often used informally and is popular in casual conversations, particularly among young adults.
Cultural References
What gives has appeared in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and music lyrics.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- What’s the deal
- What’s the real story
Related Words or Phrases
- Surprise
- Confusion
- Skepticism
Collocations
- What gives me the right
- What gives you the impression
Frequency of Use
What gives is a relatively common expression, particularly among young adults, but its usage can vary depending on the context and cultural background.
Common Misspellings
- Whata gives
- What is givin