adverb
why, for what reason
B1
weshalb is an interrogative adverb meaning “why” or “for what reason.” Used to ask reasons: Weshalb hast du das getan? Slightly more formal or literary than warum; synonyms: weshalb, warum, wieso. It is not reflexive, takes no specific preposition, and functions within main or subordinate questions.
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Weshalb hast du die Entscheidung getroffen?
For what reason did you make that decision?
Weshalb bist du gestern nicht gekommen?
Why didn't you come yesterday?
Der Bericht erklärte die Verluste, weshalb die Aktionäre ihre Zweifel äußerten.
The report explained the losses, which is why the shareholders expressed their doubts.
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picture a person asking 'weshalb?' with a questioning shrug and raised hands
sounds a bit like 'wes' + 'half' — think 'what's the half-reason?': why?
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Weshalb is a slightly more formal or literary alternative to 'warum' or 'wieso'.