How to say “why not” like a native speaker
Ask why something should not happen, or casually accept a suggestion. A rising or falling tone can change whether it sounds like a question or an agreement.
All phrases · Polite requests
Hear “why not” in real speech
Clip 1 · Sir Ken Robinson
Do schools kill creativity? | Sir Ken Robinson | TED · 9:13
About this video
Ken Robinson asks whether schools give creativity enough room. He discusses different forms of human ability and questions an education system that he says places university professors at the top.
In context
Why?Why not?
I think this is rather important.
Clip 2 · Elizabeth Gilbert
Your elusive creative genius | Elizabeth Gilbert · 9:47
About this video
Elizabeth Gilbert reflects on her relationship with writing after the success of her memoir, Eat, Pray, Love. She explores ways to think about creativity and the uncertainty of the creative process.
In context
But the question that I kind of want to pose is -- you know, why not?Why not think about it this way?
Because it makes as much sense as anything else I have ever heard
Clip 3 · Brené Brown
The Power of Vulnerability | Brené Brown | TED · 0:57
About this video
Brené Brown talks about vulnerability and human connection. She begins with an event planner's difficulty describing her as both a researcher and a storyteller, then discusses the uncertainty involved in relationships.
In context
And she said, "I'm going to call you a storyteller."And I was like, "Why not 'magic pixie'?"
I was like, "Let me think about this for a second."
When to use “why not”
- Accepting an unexpected invitation: “Shall we try the new café?” “Why not?”
- Questioning a decision: “We can't use this room.” “Why not?”
Common learner mistake
When making a suggestion, follow “Why not” with the base verb: “Why not ask?”, not “Why not to ask?”
Possible connected-speech patterns in “why not”
“Why” begins with W in many accents; some speakers distinguish WH. Give “not” a clear ending without adding another vowel.
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A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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