How to Pronounce Wherefore

To pronounce "wherefore", say WHER-ef-or-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ˈweə(ɹ)ˌfɔː(ɹ)/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

wherefore

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Accent

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Speed

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4

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈweə(ɹ)ˌfɔː(ɹ)/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “wherefore”

"wherefore" has 4 syllables: wher-ef-or-e.

What does wherefore mean?

noun

  1. An intent or purpose; a why.

adverb

  1. (interrogative) Why, for what reason, because of what.
  2. (indicative) Therefore.

conjunction

  1. Because of which.

Hear “wherefore” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Related words

whereforwhyplaintiffgroundsmotivepurposecausereason

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "wherefore"?▾

"Wherefore" has 4 syllables: wher · ef · or · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "wherefore"?▾

The IPA transcription of "wherefore" is /ˈweə(ɹ)ˌfɔː(ɹ)/.

What does "wherefore" mean?▾

Wherefore: An intent or purpose; a why.

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