English · Question Words
under what circumstances
/ˈʌn.dər wɒt ˈsɜː.kəm.stæn.sɪz/
[/ˈʌn.dər wɒt ˈsɜː.kəm.stæn.sɪz/]
in what situation
Advancedphrase
Definition
Used to ask in which situation or conditions something applies.
Example
Under what circumstances would you ever break that promise?
Under what circumstances would you ever break that promise?
Etymology
A phrase using 'circumstances' (Latin 'circumstantia', standing around).
How & Where It’s Used
A formal way to ask about conditions or situations.