What about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'What about' is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce a topic to consider, or to ask a question about something. For example: "We've discussed the plans for the summer holiday, but what about our budget? Do we have enough money to make the trip happen?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What about ;) ?

The New York Times - Magazine

T: What about enjoy?

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Projecting Matter   what about?

Functional Linguistics

What about using dogs?

The New Yorker

What about Dizzee?

Independent

What about the costs?

Desalination

What about review volume?

Journal of Retailing

What about alternative techniques?

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

What about MOH?

The Journal of Headache and Pain

What about "lectures"?

Evolution: Education and Outreach

What about British scientists?

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "What about" to introduce a new idea, suggestion, or question when you want someone to consider something they might have overlooked.

Common error

Avoid using "What about" excessively in formal writing; opt for more sophisticated phrasing like "Have you considered" or "Let's examine".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "What about" functions primarily as an interrogative adverbial phrase. It's used to introduce a suggestion, redirect a question, or prompt consideration for something that may have been overlooked. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a common and correct construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "What about" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that functions as an interrogative adverbial to introduce suggestions, redirect questions, or seek consideration for overlooked aspects. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and commonly used. It appears frequently in both scientific and news contexts. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives may be preferred in professional settings. By understanding its function and considering context-appropriate alternatives, you can effectively use "What about" to enhance communication and broaden perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

How about

This alternative offers a direct substitution, maintaining the interrogative suggestion.

What do you think of

This phrase shifts the focus to eliciting an opinion about a specific topic.

Have you considered

This alternative specifically asks if something has been taken into account.

What's your opinion on

This asks for a direct opinion, similar to "What do you think of".

Let's consider

This phrase introduces a topic for discussion or thought.

What if

This presents a hypothetical scenario for consideration.

How does that sound

This seeks feedback on a suggested option or idea.

What are your thoughts on

This alternative is similar to asking for an opinion, but slightly more formal.

What's the deal with

This alternative is more informal and inquires about a situation.

Have you thought about

This is similar to "Have you considered", emphasizing prior thought.

FAQs

How can I use "What about" in a sentence?

"What about" is used to make a suggestion, introduce a new topic, or question something previously mentioned. For example, "We've discussed dinner, but "what about" dessert?"

What are some alternatives to "What about"?

You can use alternatives like "how about", "have you considered", or "what do you think of" depending on the specific context.

Is "What about" formal or informal?

"What about" is generally considered informal to neutral. In formal settings, consider using alternatives such as "Have you considered" or "What is your opinion on".

Can "What about" start a question?

Yes, "What about" can effectively start a question, especially when redirecting a conversation or seeking consideration for a related point. For example, "You mentioned the cost, but "what about" the benefits?"