Why Do We Say 'Why' When Asking a Question?
Introduction
We often use the word 'why' when posing questions. But how does this little word impact our communication and understanding? The use of 'why' is more direct and comprehensive, touching on various aspects such as 'what,' 'how,' 'who,' 'when,' and 'where.' In this article, we explore the significance of using 'why' in our questioning and the nuances of different question forms in various contexts.The All-Inclusiveness of 'Why'
"Why" is used to address broader aspects of an issue. Unlike "how come," which is more idiomatic and less clear, "why" can encompass multiple facets of a situation: What is happening and why it is happening. Who is involved and what their role is. When the event occurred and how that timing affects the situation. Where the event is taking place. Why the event or situation has led to the current state. For example, consider the question: Why is the parking lot crowded today?A: Because it's a holiday.
This response clearly relates to the 'who,' 'what,' 'when,' 'where,' and 'why.' It explains that the increased number of people is due to the holiday, which causes them to spend time off from work, visit nearby restaurants, and shop at the center, filling the parking lot. If we asked, "What made the parking lot so crowded" or "How did the parking lot get so crowded," it might sound confusing or go in a different direction, away from the root cause.Contextual Variations
The choice of question form depends on the situation and the responder's intent. Different people might use different question forms based on their intentions and the context: The deaf often ask "what" to seek clarification. The incredulous might use "how." The needy might ask "when." The suspicious may inquire "who." The seekers might wonder "where." Wise people, including children, often simply ask "why," seeking a straightforward explanation.The Evolution of Question Form
Language evolves, and the form of questions can change over time. For instance, "how come" is neither a fully formed question nor a complete sentence, making it challenging to provide a direct answer. Many people, including non-native English speakers, might prefer to use "how come" due to its familiarity and ease of use. However, there are nuances when using such terms:The phrase "how come you asked your question that way" reflects a situation where the speaker feels the question is framed oddly. It is worth noting that while many might think "how come" sounds more natural or less awkward, others might find it less formal or direct.
Directness and Clarity
Using "why" instead of "how come" makes the questioning more direct and less ambiguous. This choice reflects a preference for clear, concise communication. The desire for simplicity and a straightforward response is common among native English speakers. For example, a 95-year-old man might use "why" without much hesitation, whereas another might prefer "how come," which can sometimes sound mildly challenging or combative.The Challenges of Language Use
When using language, especially in asserting language proficiency, one must be careful not to imply superiority over others. For instance, saying your English is better than someone else’s can be seen as disrespectful or offensive. It is crucial to understand the nuances and intent behind language choices. Each person has a unique perspective and experience with language, and it is more constructive to focus on understanding rather than judgment.Asking why you are questioning something and where you've heard a preference for one form over another can provide insights into the cultural and linguistic context. Everyone has different preferences and reasons for their language choices, and it is often helpful to understand these differences to foster better communication and respect.