The Common Mistake: whatsoever vs. what so ever

One of the most common mistakes in English grammar is the incorrect usage of the word "whatsoever". Many people often write it as "what so ever" or mistakenly split the word into "what" and "so ever".

The correct spelling and usage are actually "whatsoever". This term is used to emphasize or intensify a negative statement or to indicate that there are no exceptions or limits. It is often used in formal or literary contexts.

Incorrect: what so ever

An incorrect usage of the term is "what so ever", where the word "so" is inserted between "what" and "ever". This separation is grammatically incorrect and changes the meaning of the expression.

For example:

• I don't have any interest in sports what so ever.

In this case, the incorrect usage changes the meaning to "I don't have any interest in sports what, so ever?", which doesn't make sense.

Correct: whatsoever

The correct usage is to write "whatsoever" as one word.

For example:

• I don't have any interest in sports whatsoever.

This correct usage emphasizes the speaker's lack of interest in sports without any exceptions.

About Linguix Grammar Checker

Linguix Grammar Checker is a powerful tool that can help you identify and correct mistakes in your written English, including common errors like the one mentioned above. It offers suggestions and explanations to improve your grammar and enhance your writing skills.