Should we write “whatever” or “whatever”? To find out, you have to look at its place in the sentence. Here are some rules to avoid making mistakes.
When to write “whatever” in two words?
You must write “whatever” in two words if the formula precedes an attributive verb, in most cases, the verb “to be” in the subjunctive. Another way to check this is to replace “whatever” with “regardless” in the sentence. When “quel que” is written in two words, “quel” must agree with the subject:
- “Whatever” the reason for your coming, I will always be happy to see you!
- “No matter” the reason for your coming, I will always be happy to see you!
Similarly, we write “whatever the obstacles, we will overcome them” and not “whatever the obstacles”, because “whatever” can be replaced by “whatever” and is followed by the verb “to be” in the subjunctive.
When to write “some” in a word?
“Some” is written in one word and is invariable when used as an adverb, or if it is in front of another adverb or a numeral adjective:
- I am “somewhat” disappointed with the film.
- He has not seen her for “some” 40 years.
In the latter case, “some” can be replaced by “about”.
When “some” is placed before a noun and expresses something quantifiable, it is an adjective. You have to agree with the subject. To identify it, we can replace “some” with “a little”:
- I would like to take “a few” days of vacation.
- He would like “some” peace.