wherefore

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Appearing before the Democratic faithful at the state party convention in San Francisco, hopefuls offered the whys and wherefore of their candidacies.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 2026

In addition to gleaning the why and wherefore behind America’s foundational document, teenage listeners will meet up with the Declaration of Independence and a roster of seminal Supreme Court decisions.

From New York Times • May 28, 2018

But where "Lost" scrambled for an explanation, to assign some causes and effects to its kooky island, "The Leftovers" keeps the why and the wherefore dark.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2014

But when I heard in their sweet melodiesCompassion for me, more than had they said,"O wherefore, lady, dost thou thus upbraid him?"

From The Guardian • Aug. 16, 2010

“What do you mean? What do you demand of your captain? Are you, then, so easily turned from your design? Did you not call this a glorious expedition? “And wherefore was it glorious?

From "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley