student asking question

What does the suffix "-ever" mean? In what circumstances can I use it?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

The suffix "-ever" does not have a meaning itself, but it is added to the words "who," "which," "what," "when," "where," and "how" to change their meanings. In essence, these words lose all restrictions so that "whoever" means "any person who," "wherever" becomes "at any place," "whenever" means "any time" or "at whatever time," and so on. You can use this suffix with the above words when you want to state that there is no restriction on person, thing, place, time, etc. Ex: We can meet whenever you want! => There are no restrictions on time for us to meet.) Ex: Whenever I see my friends, I feel very happy. => I feel very happy every time I see my friends.) Ex: You can bring whoever you want to the party! => You can bring anyone you want to the party!)

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