why; for what purpose; what are you doing
Meanings
3 senses · 8 examplesverb phrase
why; for what reason or purpose
informalUsed in spoken language to inquire about the reason or purpose behind an action or situation. Cannot be used to ask about the objective principles or nature of things (use '为什么' or '怎么' for that). Often implies a tone of blame, impatience, or surprise.
Why didn't you say so earlier?
Why does he keep saying these things?
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Why are you going now? / What are you going to do now?
verb phrase
what are you doing; what's going on
informalUsed to ask about someone's current activity, job, or what is happening. Often used as a greeting or to express concern.
What are you doing in the room?
What does your father do? (What is his job?)
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It's so noisy outside, what's going on?
verb phrase
to express blame or dissatisfaction
informalUsed rhetorically to criticize, blame, or express strong dissatisfaction with someone's action or inaction. The tone is often sharp or confrontational.
Why did you touch my stuff? (implying 'Don't touch it!')
It's none of your business, why are you asking so many questions?