wherewithal

[ˈwɛr.wɪð.ˌɔl]

wherewithal Definition

• 1. the money or other means needed for a particular purpose
• 2. the ability to do something

Using wherewithal: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wherewithal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I don't have the wherewithal to buy a new car right now.

• Example

  The company lacks the wherewithal to expand its operations.

• Example

  She has the wherewithal to succeed in this job.

wherewithal Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wherewithal

• means
• capability
• capacity
• power
• resources

Phrases with wherewithal

• financial wherewithal

  the financial resources or means to do something

  Example

  He had the financial wherewithal to start his own business.

• intellectual wherewithal

  the intellectual capacity or ability to do something

  Example

  She lacked the intellectual wherewithal to understand the complex problem.

• emotional wherewithal

  the emotional strength or resilience to deal with a difficult situation

  Example

  She didn't have the emotional wherewithal to cope with the loss of her husband.

Origins of wherewithal

from 'where' + 'withal', meaning 'with what'

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Summary: wherewithal in Brief

The term 'wherewithal' [ˈwɛr.wɪð.ˌɔl] refers to the money or other means needed for a particular purpose, or the ability to do something. It is often used to describe a lack of resources or capability, as in 'The company lacks the wherewithal to expand its operations.' 'Wherewithal' can also be modified by adjectives like 'financial,' 'intellectual,' or 'emotional,' as in 'She lacked the intellectual wherewithal to understand the complex problem.'