what with

Idioms

Taking into consideration, because of, as in What with all you have to carry, we should take a taxi. This usage replaced the earlier what for. [c. 1600]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Corporate retreats are generally assumed to be torture, or at least a semi-stressful chore, what with their forced-fun activities and hybrid work-play environments that leave workers confused about boundaries.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

To be sure, 2025 was hardly smooth sailing on Wall Street or Main, what with “Liberation Day” tariffs, a near-bear market, persistent inflation, and threats to the independence of the Federal Reserve.

From Barron's • Jan. 1, 2026

Mookie’s loss of power is understandable what with the weight loss and other injuries.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2025

"It was as if we were watching a football match what with all the crying and shouting," she recalled.

From BBC • Jul. 25, 2025

“They basically said that she abandoned them, so why should they look for her? Especially Joaquin, what with the foster care and everything.”

From "Far from the Tree" by Robin Benway

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023