15+ Slang Words For What (And How To Use Them)

Written by Gabriel Cruz - Foodie, Animal Lover, Slang & Language Enthusiast

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A pillar of how to start questions, "what" is essential in continuing conversations, stating shock or disbelief, and surviving the dinner table.

We have compiled a list of the most essential slang terms and expressions for or related to "what." Here you go:

Slang Words for What (in Alphabetical Order)

Come Again

Meaning:

  • (Verb) An informal slang for requesting a repetition of something one has said.
  • Example: Person 1: Mrs. Jones wants to see you. Person 2: Come again? Person 1: Mrs. Jones, from the HR department, wants to talk to you. 

For What It's Worth

Meaning:

  • (Expression) Usually said when you are unsure how your statement will help but will say it anyway. This is to offer some amount of comfort.
  • Example: 

Person 1: I don’t think I’ll ever find that great of a boyfriend ever again. Person 2: For what it’s worth, I think you’re the perfect girlfriend material. 


Guess What

Meaning:

  • (Expression) Commonly reserved among friends, this is an expression is used to start a conversation with the topic to be told anyway whether or not the friends have guessed the topic.
  • Example: 

Person 1: Guess what.

Person 2: Your cat died. 

Person 1: No, my cat graduated potty training today!


Huh

Meaning:

  • (Expression) A mumble-like expression that can be used to denote “what” when stated in a questioning tone.
  • Example: 

Person 1: Your brother is so hot.

Person 2: Huh? I can’t say the same.


No Matter What 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) To assure certainty even if the future is unclear.
  • Example: Some zealots really do what their religion demands no matter what.

OMG

Meaning:

  • (Expression) When “what” is used to connote shock, OMG or “Oh My God” can take its place as a commonplace expression.
  • Example: 

Person 1: Isn’t that your ex-boyfriend?

Person 2: OMG! I can’t believe that cheater had the nerve to show up.

Or What

Meaning:

  • (Expression) An expression that challenges the other’s authority. 
  • Example: 

Person 1: Judy, you won’t go to the party!

Person 2: Or what?

Person 1: Or you’ll be grounded for a full month.


Say What 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) An expression of disbelief or doubt. May also be used to ask for a repetition.
  • Example: 

Person 1: I can’t eat the extra sandwich. I’m on a diet.

Person 2: Say what now?

So What 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) Said by someone when they do not mind the consequences of their actions.
  • Example: 

Person 1: How come you are here at the sleepover party? You’re grounded.

Person 2: So what? My parents won't know unless you rat me out.


Tell You What 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) Often used to console someone.
  • Example: Tell you what: if you finish all your vegetables, I’ll buy you ice cream.

Wazzup 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) A street and internet version of “What’s up?” or asking how one is doing.
  • Example: 

Person 1: Wazzup brother? Long time no see.

Person 2: Doing just fine, and you?

What Not

Meaning:

  • (Expression) Typically used to refer to all other things or etcetera.
  • Example: Although I’m his twin, I’m not responsible for his behavior and what not.

What the Hell 

Meaning:

  • (Expression) An informal expression that is usually wrapped in anger.
  • Example: 

Person 1: Sweetie, your car is being towed away.

Person 2: What the hell? I’m on my way.

Whatever

Meaning:

  • (Expression) A conversational way of remarking disinterest. 
  • Example: 

Person 1: Oh dear, you got a speeding ticket. 

Person 2: Whatever, it's not my first anyway.

WTF

Meaning:

  • (Expression) A vulgar internet slang that stands for “What The Fuck” normally to comment shock or distaste.
  • Example: You've been playing this game for days? WTF, this is just so easy.

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