conjunction / adverb

whenever

At any time that or every time that.

You can call me whenever you need help with homework.

Etymology

Ever removes restriction from the time reference. Whenever can include any occasion or every occasion meeting the stated condition.

More examples

  • My dog wags her tail whenever I come home.
  • We can leave whenever you are ready.
  • Water collects near the back door whenever it rains.

Similar words

when
Identifies a time without emphasizing every or any occasion.
anytime
Means at any time, but not necessarily every time.