Chinese · Question Words
为什么
wèishénme
Why
Beginneradverb
Definition
Used to ask about a reason.
Example
你为什么学中文？
Why do you study Chinese?
Etymology
'为什么' (wèishénme) combines '为' (to act for) and '什么' (what), directly translating to 'why' and originates from a historical context of seeking reasons or motivations.
How & Where It’s Used
'为什么' (wèishénme) is common in conversations and written inquiries, used across both formal and informal registers to question reasons or causes.