Where in the world...

[Mitra584]

Dear to whom may it concern,
http://www.english-test.net/toeic/listening/what_do_you_think_of_our_new_manager.html
What does the definition of 'where in the world did you get that idea? I mean ‘where in the world’. Is it formal or informal?
In advanced thank you very much indeed.
Regards
Mitra
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Peace&Love

[Alan]

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Hi Mitra,

The expression you have quoted is similar to 'Where on earth?'. It is essentially an informal expression and is used as a forceful expression of surprise in contrast to the one word 'where?'

Alan
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple

[Mitra584]

Dear Alan,
I know it seems a little odd that I utter it because you're from England but I love your colorful accent. I heard your message several times.
Thank you very much indeed for your explanation.
With the best regard
Mitra


_________________
Peace&Love

[Baalrieth]

"Whatever" means the same, or not?
I know the phrase as "What in the world" or "Where ever in the world".

"Oh my God! Where ever in the world are you doing this? Are you mad?"
Last words of a man beside a smoker in a petrol station.

[Alan]

Hi.

I think the expression you want is: Whatever in the world ...? 'Wherever in the world ...? isn't really used in that way.

Alan
_________________
English as a Foreign Language
You can read my EFL story Progressive Forms