student asking question

When can I use this expression? It should be used when I am interested or disgusted?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"What is it exactly" is a phrase that can be used in different scenarios, and have a different nuance depending on the context it's used in and how it is said. "What is it exactly" can be used to ask for clarification about something, and have a neutral connotation. It can also be used as a rhetorical question with a negative connotation to confront someone about something. Like you mentioned, it can be used to show disgust towards something and have a negative connotation. Ex: I love this product, what is it exactly? I'm interested in buying it. ("What is it exactly" used to ask for clarification with a neutral connotation) Ex: I know you want something out of our relationship, what is it exactly? ("What is it exactly" used as a rhetorical question to be confrontational, and has a negative connotation) Ex: I saw the meal you prepared, what is it exactly? I can't tell what type of food it is. ("What is it exactly" used to show disgust with a negative connotation)

Popular Q&As

04/24

Complete the expression with a quiz!