How About vs. What About

Attribute	How About	What About
Usage	Used to suggest or propose something	Used to inquire or ask about something
Formality	Can be used in both formal and informal contexts	Can be used in both formal and informal contexts
Meaning	Asking for opinions or suggestions	Asking for information or clarification
Response	Usually expects a suggestion or proposal in response	Usually expects an answer or explanation in response
Examples	"How about we go to the movies tonight?"	"What about the meeting scheduled for tomorrow?"

Introduction

When it comes to expressing suggestions or making inquiries, two commonly used phrases in English are "How about" and "What about." These phrases are often used interchangeably, but they do have subtle differences in meaning and usage. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both "How about" and "What about" to understand when and how to use them effectively.

Meaning and Usage

Starting with "How about," this phrase is primarily used to make suggestions or proposals. It implies a sense of offering an idea or solution to a situation. For example, "How about going to the movies tonight?" or "How about we try that new restaurant for dinner?" The phrase "How about" is often followed by a verb in the gerund form (ending in -ing) or a noun phrase.

On the other hand, "What about" is used to inquire about or consider a specific aspect or possibility. It is commonly used to seek additional information or to address a particular concern. For instance, "What about the cost of the trip?" or "What about the weather forecast for tomorrow?" The phrase "What about" is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase.

Similarities

While "How about" and "What about" have distinct meanings and usage, they also share some similarities. Both phrases are used to initiate a conversation or discussion, and they both express a degree of curiosity or interest in a particular topic. Additionally, both phrases can be used in informal and formal contexts, depending on the situation and the relationship between the speakers.

Furthermore, both "How about" and "What about" can be used to introduce a range of topics, such as plans, suggestions, opinions, concerns, or alternatives. They provide a versatile way to engage in conversation and explore different possibilities.

Differences

While "How about" and "What about" are similar in many ways, they do have some notable differences. One key difference lies in their primary functions. "How about" is primarily used for making suggestions or proposals, whereas "What about" is used for inquiries or considerations.

Another difference is the structure that follows these phrases. As mentioned earlier, "How about" is typically followed by a verb in the gerund form or a noun phrase. In contrast, "What about" is usually followed by a noun or noun phrase. This distinction reflects the different intentions behind the two phrases.

Additionally, "How about" often implies a positive or affirmative suggestion, while "What about" can sometimes suggest a more neutral or even negative inquiry. For example, "How about we go for a walk in the park?" conveys a positive suggestion, while "What about the potential risks?" may indicate a more cautious or skeptical inquiry.

Usage Examples

To further illustrate the usage of "How about" and "What about," let's consider some examples:

How About

• How about we have a picnic in the park this weekend?
• How about going for a swim in the ocean?
• How about trying that new recipe for dinner tonight?
• How about we watch a movie together?
• How about we go shopping this afternoon?

What About

• What about the cost of the project?
• What about the impact on the environment?
• What about the potential risks involved?
• What about the availability of parking in the area?
• What about the deadline for submission?

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "How about" and "What about" are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and usage. "How about" is primarily used for making suggestions or proposals, while "What about" is used for inquiries or considerations. Understanding the subtle differences between these phrases can help us communicate more effectively and express our intentions accurately. So, next time you want to suggest something or seek additional information, consider whether "How about" or "What about" is the most appropriate choice.