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“Whats” versus “what’s.” Which one is correct and is there any difference between them?
The correct word is “what’s.” “Whats” is not a word. We need to add an apostrophe to make a contraction. “What’s” is short for “what is” or “what has.”
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What’s
What’s is a contraction for “what is” or “what has.”
A contraction is a shortened form of two words. The apostrophe shows that there are letters missing. In the case of “what’s”, we are missing the “i” from “what is” and the “ha” from “what has.”
Let’s explain further:
“What’s” is a contraction of “what is.” For example, you might say “What’s (=what is) your name?” or “What’s (=what is) your phone number?”
What’s” is also a contraction of “what has.” For example, you might say “What’s (=what has) happened in Vegas?” or “What’s (=what has) he done?
Whats
“Whats” is not a word. It is grammatically incorrect and is a misspelling. Some people may write “whats” in an email or message because it’s faster than writing it with the apostrophe! This doesn’t make it right!
Whats vs What’s
Clearly, “whats” is not a word. Instead, use “what’s” if you want to spell the word correctly.
“What’s” in a Sentence
Examples of questions and sentences with “what’s:”
- What’s your name?
- What’s in this bag?
- What’s for dinner?
- What’s the matter?
- What’s up?
- What’s on TV?
- What’s got four legs and a tail?
- What’s the time?
- What has she done to the furniture?
- What’s the temperature?
- What’s your address?
- What’s Lola wearing?
- What’s Matt doing?
- I don’t know what’s going on.
Other Contractions Similar to “What’s”
There are other contractions that are similar to “what’s.” For example, you might say “that’s” instead of “that is” or “that has.” You might also say “there’s” instead of “there is.”
Mustn’t (=must not)
Isn’t (=is not)
Can’t (=cannot)
They’re (=they are not)
Aren’t (=are not)
Etc.
“What’s” VS “What is:” When To Use
When you are writing in a more formal style, you might want to use the full form of “what is.” For example, you might say, “What is your name?” or “What is your email?”
“What’s” is typically used in more informal writing or speech. I wouldn’t advise using it in school essays or professional emails.
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In Conclusion
“What’s” is a contraction of “what has” or “what is.” It is always used in informal writing or speech. “What is” is always used in more formal writing or speech.
If you see “whats” without an apostrophe, take it as a misspelling. This is a common typographical error.
Useful Links
- What’s your Birthday or When’s Your Birthday?
- Best “What’s Up” Responses (Meaning & Alternatives)
- Womens, Women’s or Womens’? Which is Correct?
- What’s Their Name or What Are Their Names? Which is Correct?
- Other’s or Others’? Clear Examples– Possessive Form
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and founder of TPR Teaching, crafting inspiring pieces that promote the importance of developing new skills. For 7 years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.