In the world

usgb
adverb

Exaggerating and emphasizing something.

Why in the world would he do something like that?
Visual representation of "in the world" - Exaggerating and emphasizing something.

Often appears as...

  • why in the world
  • what in the world

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 5
Visual representation of "in the world"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emphasis on Confusion

Used to stress how baffling or unexpected a situation is.

Illustration for Emphasis on Confusion
How in the world did you solve that puzzle so quickly?
LampPro Tip 2/3

Rhetorical Question

Often paired with rhetorical questions where the answer is not expected.

Illustration for Rhetorical Question
What in the world were you thinking, jumping into the pool with your clothes on?
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conveys Astonishment

Highlights the speaker's amazement or disbelief.

Illustration for Conveys Astonishment
Why in the world is this cat following us everywhere?
Visual representation of the word "In the world"

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