student asking question

What's the difference between "how about this" and "what about this"?

teacher

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.

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