# whereas

Pronunciation: say "wair-AZ" US /(h)wɛɹˈæz/, UK /weəɹˈæz/

## Conjunction

1. Used to introduce one statement set in contrast with another, showing that one thing is true while the opposite holds for something else.
   - Simple: Used to compare two things and show how they are different.
   - _My sister spends every weekend hiking, whereas I would rather stay home with a book._
   - _The first proposal focused on cutting costs, whereas the second emphasized long-term growth._
2. Used to introduce a recital in a formal or legal document, meaning 'given that' or 'since,' setting out the facts behind an agreement.
   - Simple: Used at the start of a legal sentence to mean 'since' or 'because.'
   - _Whereas the parties have agreed to settle their dispute, they hereby release all claims against each other._
   - _Whereas the Council recognizes the urgent need for housing, it resolves to fund three new developments._

## Noun

3. A clause in a legal document, beginning with the word 'whereas,' that sets out one of the background facts behind the agreement.
   - Simple: A part of a legal document that begins with the word 'whereas' and states a background fact.
   - _The lawyer added a whereas to record that both sides had negotiated in good faith._
   - _The resolution's three whereases set out the facts before the operative clauses._

## Adverb

4. Indicating the place in or at which something is or happens; where. *(obsolete)*
   - Simple: In or at the place where something is or happens.
   - _She led the travelers to the spring whereas the clear water rose from the rock._
   - _The knight rode toward the castle whereas his lord awaited him._

## Origin

This word was formed from "where" combined with "as" (in the sense of "that"), and is first attested in the 14th century, originally meaning "where."

Source: DictionaryAI, https://dictionaryai.com/define/whereas (written from Wiktionary data, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).