‘Where Ever' or 'Wherever': Which is Correct?

By Amy Gilmore, updated on September 24, 2024

If you need to know whether 'wherever' or 'wherever' is correct, you have come to the right place.

Before we get started, here is a brief overview in case you are in a hurry:

  • 'Where ever' is a spelling and grammatical error.
  • 'Wherever' is the incorrect way to spell the English term for an available product immediately.

While the answer above does help you determine which of these phrases to use, there is much more to learn. Plus, this post's definitions, writing tips, and sentence samples will also help you remember the correct spelling.

So, keep reading!

Which is Correct, 'Where Ever' or 'Wherever?'

There are some compound words that you separate depending on your usage. However, between these spellings, only one is correct. You always merge the two words and drop an when you use where and ever together.

So, the correct spelling is ALWAYS 'wherever.'

Compound Words

'Wherever' is a compound word. Hundreds of similar terms are made by combining two words to create a new word.

In many cases, the words are strung together, for example:

  • Anywhere
  • Nowhere
  • Somewhere
  • Everywhere
  • Background
  • Barefoot
  • Bathroom
  • Bedroom
  • Diecast
  • Hamburger
  • Chickpea
  • Airport
  • Babysit

However, because where ends in an e, and ever starts with an e, you drop one when you join them.

There are even compound words that you keep separate, like:

  • Help desk
  • Hot dog
  • Living room
  • Dining room

Many compound words that you separate contain a verb, and they are referred to as phrasal verbs.

Definition of 'Wherever': What Does 'Wherever' Mean?

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'wherever' is a  conjunction that means:

  • To, in, or at all or any place
  • In any circumstance

'Wherever' can also be an adjective that means:

  • Anyplace at all, no matter where
  • Where in the world

Synonyms and Similar Words to 'Wherever'

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Wherever'

When learning about terms, you should always pay attention to their pronunciation. While mispronouncing something has no reflection on your intelligence, when you mispronounce words, it can affect your credibility with your audience.

Furthermore, it may cause them to misunderstand your message.

Words with silent letters, like 'wherever' can be particularly challenging for English language learners.

So, here is a pronunciation guide for you to reference.

  • Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'wherever':

(h)wer-eh-ver

When and How to Use 'Wherever'

So, you've learned the spelling, definition, and pronunciation of 'wherever,' however, you may still be curious how you use it.

Here are some writing tips to help you determine how and when to use this popular word.

  • Use 'wherever' to say you will do something anywhere.

For example, if someone asks, 'Where do you want to celebrate your 21st birthday?'

You could respond:

Wherever! I can celebrate anywhere as long as the right people are there!

  • Use 'wherever' to ask where someone got or did something.

So, you could say:

Wherever did you get married on such short notice??

  • Use 'wherever' to say that someone does something in any location.

As an example, I might say:

Wherever John goes, he always climbs up the corporate ladder quickly. He started his newest job on his 31st birth

Sample Sentences Using 'Wherever'

Now, read these sample sentences using the term to ensure you know and remember how to use it in different contexts.

Wherever

  • Wherever did you find that incredible sweater?! You have a gift for finding the most incredible clothes.
  • I am not afraid of you! I can beat you wherever or whenever, and you know it!
  • Wherever you are, please call me! I miss you so much! I need to hear your voice.
  • I can't decide where to hold our Halloween party. Wherever we have it needs to be old and have a spooky atmosphere.
  • I am willing to go wherever, as long as there is low enough light that you can see the stars!!
  • Wherever we go, we will not have modern amenities. So, if you need them, you better sit this journey out.
  • Wherever did you find those shoes? I have been looking for them for six months. Despite looking everywhere, I have not been able to find a pair!
  • I have been looking for my keys for the past hour. Wherever did you find them?

Final Advice on 'Where Ever' or 'Wherever

You are likely an expert on the topic now. Nevertheless, we reviewed a lot of information. So, here is a quick recap of what you learned about whether the correct spelling is 'where ever' or 'wherever':

  • 'Where ever' is a spelling error you should avoid using. 
  • 'Wherever' is the correct spelling of the English conjunction and adverb that means anywhere at all or what in the world.

Hopefully, you will remember the correct spelling after this lesson. If you don't, you can always come back for a quick review of this guide. You can also learn about hundreds of other frequently misused, mispronounced, and misspelled words in the confusing words section here.

Each post contains a brief overview and detailed explanation with definitions, pronunciations, examples, and writing tips. So, whether you are learning English as a second language or working on improving your writing skills, these guides should help.

Furthermore, you can also use this site to verify the correct usage of many terms to ensure that your writing is accurate and credible. So, bookmark it and come back often to read our latest content!

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Written By:
Amy Gilmore
Amy Gilmore is one of the lead freelance writers for WritingTips.org. She has been a professional writer and editor for the past eight years. She developed a love of language arts and literature in school and decided to become a professional freelance writer after a demanding career in real estate. Amy is constantly learning to become a better writer and loves sharing tips with other writers who want to do the same.

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