What's the difference between "how about this" and "what about this"?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
"How about this" and "what about this" can be used interchangeably, there is a lot of overlap between the two, but there are differences in their uses. "What about ..." is usually a way to bring an objection or potential obstacle (positive or negative) into consideration, whereas "how about ..." expands, rather than restricts, the possibilities." Ex: A. I'm bored. There's nothing to do. B. How about we go see a movie? Ex: A. I'm bored. Let's go see a movie. B. What about our exams tomorrow?" In the first example, "how about..." expands the possibilities. A thought there was nothing to do, but B reminded him that they could see a movie. In the second example, B limited the possibilities: A wanted to see a movie, but B reminded him that they had to study for their exams. On a side note, "what about" cannot take a sentence. Ex: What about we see a movie? (wrong) Ex: What about seeing a movie? Ex: How about seeing a movie? Also, "how about" can be used when making a suggestion that you feel is best. "What about" when you're less sure about the idea and more willing to listen to other suggestions.