How, why, etc. in the world

adverb

Used to express surprise, confusion, or dismay about something.

How in the world did you manage to do that?

Idiomatic

adverb

Why in the world would you think that?

Idiomatic

adverb

How in the world did you manage to do that?

Idiomatic

adverb

Why in the world would you think that?

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Use it when something is so surprising that usual questions aren't strong enough.

How in the world did you solve it so quickly?

Pro Tip 2/3

Fits informal settings like chatting with friends, not formal reports or meetings.

Where in the world have you been? We've been waiting for hours!

Pro Tip 3/3

Highlights that you're really puzzled about how someone did something.

What in the world were you thinking when you mixed those chemicals?

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