What vs How
What’s the difference between them?
What
Meaning:
What (pronoun): What (or which) thing or things; used to ask for information specifying something.
Examples:
1. What do you want to do today?
2. What are your plans for the weekend?
3. What do you think about this situation?
How
Meaning:
How is an adverb used to ask a question about the manner, method, or means by which something is done.
Examples:
1. How did you solve that math problem?
2. How much do you want to spend on dinner tonight?
3. How are you feeling today?
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
What
1. That
2. Which
3. That which
4. Such
5. The thing
1. Nothing
2. Absence
3. Opposite
4. Avoid
5. Unsuccessful
How
1. What
2. As to
3. Explain
4. Describe
5. Elucidate
1. Why
2. When
3. Where
4. Who
5. Abstain
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "What", "How".
1. What is a question for information.
2. How is a question for instruction.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'What' should generally be used when asking a question or seeking information. For example, 'What is the best way to solve this problem?'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'How' is often used to ask about the process or method of doing something. For example, 'How can I complete this task?'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. 'What' is pronounced /wot/ and how is pronounced /haʊ/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
Common mistakes people make when using these words include using 'what' when asking about the process of doing something, or using 'how' when seeking information. It is important to be aware of the different functions of 'what' and 'how' in order to use them correctly.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. ________ many times have you asked me that question?
2. ________ can I help you?
3. ________ did you find out?
4. ________ did you get here?
5. ________ did you like about the movie?
6. ________ did they react to the news?
1. How
Explanation: How is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks information from the listener.
2. How
Explanation: How is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks information from the listener.
3. What
Explanation: What is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks specific information from the listener.
4. How
Explanation: How is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks information from the listener.
5. What
Explanation: What is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks specific information from the listener.
6. How
Explanation: How is used in this sentence as a way to begin an interrogative sentence, which seeks information from the listener.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.