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Esldepp Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

About the word "whatever" in this sentence

"Whatever the reason, he refuses to come". Does it omit an "is" after "reason"? "whatever" is supposed to be an adjective here. How can the be word be omitted in this sentence? What are the principles to justify this omission?

Thanks

D
  

Top answer

esldepp "Whatever the reason, he refuses to come". Does it omit an "is" after "reason"? Yes.

— CalifJim

  • esldepp "Whatever the reason, he refuses to come".
  • Does it omit an "is" after "reason"?
  • Yes.
  • The "is" is understood.
  • esldepp What are the principles to justify this omission?
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1 Answers
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esldepp"Whatever the reason, he refuses to come". Does it omit an "is" after "reason"?
Yes. The "is" is understood.
esldeppWhat are the principles to justify this omission?
There are no principles to justify it; it is more a matter of the traditional usage of introductory "-ever" words.

CJ
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