whoever

• Pronom relatif indéfini désignant « celui qui » ou « n'importe qui », utilisé pour se référer à toute personne qui accomplit une action ou se trouve dans un certain état.

An indefinite/relative pronoun used to refer to any person who; functions as the subject of a relative clause, often introducing a noun clause or free relative clause. Can also be used in emphatic questions or to express surprise.

1. Free relative pronoun meaning 'any person who' or 'the person who'B1formal

   Used to refer to any person or the specific person that performs an action or satisfies a condition, functioning as the subject of a subordinate clause. Often introduces a noun clause or adverbial clause of concession.

   quiconque

   • Whoever broke the window must pay for it.
   • You can invite whoever you like to the party.
   • Whoever wins the election will face major challenges.
   • I'll give this book to whoever asks for it first.
   • Whoever told you that was mistaken.

2. Emphatic interrogative pronoun expressing surprise or disbeliefB2informal

   Used in questions to add emphasis, surprise, or confusion to 'who'; indicates that the speaker has no idea or is astonished about the identity of the person.

   qui donc

   • Whoever left this mess on the floor?
   • Whoever could have predicted such an outcome?
   • Whoever are you talking about?
   • Whoever would have thought they'd get married?
   • Whoever is making that strange noise?

3. Concessive pronoun meaning 'no matter who' or 'regardless of who'B2formal

   Used to indicate that the identity of the person is irrelevant to the main clause; often introduces a concessive clause similar to 'no matter who'.

   qui que ce soit qui

   • Whoever calls, tell them I'm unavailable.
   • Whoever you are, please leave this property immediately.
   • Whoever wins, the company will benefit.
   • I won't change my mind, whoever argues with me.
   • Whoever is responsible, they should step forward.