What’s with somebody?
phrase
Used to ask why someone is behaving in a strange or different way.
What's with him today? He seems upset.
Often appears as...
- what's with you?
- what's with her?
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
phrase
Used to express disapproval or confusion about something someone has or is doing.
What's with all this mess? Can you clean up your room?
Often appears as...
- what's with all this?
- what's with all that?
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial, Idiomatic
phrase
Used to ask why someone is behaving in a strange or different way.
What's with him today? He seems upset.
Often appears as...
- what's with you?
- what's with her?
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
phrase
Used to express disapproval or confusion about something someone has or is doing.
What's with all this mess? Can you clean up your room?
Often appears as...
- what's with all this?
- what's with all that?
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial, Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional State
Implies concern or curiosity about someone's mood or behavior.
What's with Sara? She's been sighing all morning.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
Doesn't always expect a serious answer, can be rhetorical to show surprise or confusion.
What's with the suit? Are you meeting the president or something?
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Context
Most appropriate in casual or informal situations, not for formal contexts.
What's with the quietness, guys? We just scored a goal!
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