what’s going on: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘what's going on’ mean?
The idiom "what's going on" is used to inquire about the current situation or events, seeking information or understanding. It's a casual expression commonly used in conversations to ask about what is happening or to express confusion.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "you what" is an informal expression typically used in British English to signify surprise, disbelief, or seeking clarification. It is often used rhetorically to question or challenge a statement or to express astonishment.
The idiom "why on Earth" is used to express surprise or confusion about something. It emphasizes the speaker's disbelief or curiosity at a particular situation or action.
The idiom "why in the world" is used to express surprise or confusion about something, emphasizing the speaker's disbelief or astonishment. It is often used rhetorically, without expecting a literal answer to the question posed.
The idiom "what was someone thinking" is used to express confusion or disbelief about someone's actions or decisions.
The idiom "what's what" means to understand or know the important or essential information about a subject or situation.
The idiom "what's the matter" is used to ask someone what is wrong or bothering them.
The idiom "what's the good of" is used to question the practical value or usefulness of something. It expresses a doubt or skepticism about the benefits or advantages of a particular action or situation.
The idiom "what's the difference" is used to express indifference or to question the importance or significance between two choices or options.
The idiom "what's new" is used as a casual way of asking for the latest or most recent information or updates about someone or something.
Enigmatic World Unveiled
The idiom "what's cooking" is related to the phrase "what's going on" as both expressions suggest a curiosity about a situation or event. While "what's going on" is a more general inquiry, "what's cooking" specifically asks about what is happening or being prepared. The idiom "what's cooking" is often used in a more informal and conversational setting to inquire about the current activities or plans of someone or something.
The idiom "what's new" also relates to the phrase "what's going on" as both expressions express a desire to gather information about the latest happenings. While "what's going on" is a more broad inquiry, "what's new" specifically asks about any recent updates or developments. The idiom "what's new" is commonly used to initiate conversations or catch up with others by seeking updates on their lives, activities, or experiences.
The idiom "what's the matter" is another related expression that shares common ground with the phrase "what's going on." While "what's the matter" is typically used to express concern or inquire about someone's well-being, it can also be used to show curiosity or confusion about a specific situation. The idiom "what's the matter" is often used in a friendly and supportive manner to check on someone's emotions, feelings, or health.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "what's going on" can be used in a sentence:
- She walked into the room and asked, "Hey, what's going on here?"
- I don't understand what's going on with my computer; it keeps freezing.
- He looked confused and asked his friends, "Can someone please explain what's going on?"
Analysis:
The idiom "what's going on" is commonly used to ask about or inquire about a situation or event. It is often used when someone wants to know what is happening or wants an explanation for a particular circumstance. The idiom can be used in both casual and formal settings, and it is often used in spoken conversation. It can also be used in writing, such as in informal emails or messages.
More "Interrogative" idioms
