whereabouts

word

/ˈhwɛɹəˌbaʊts/
WAIR-uh-bowts
/wˈeəɹɐbˌaʊts/
WAIR-uh-bowts

Definition

The place where someone or something is, especially when the exact location is not known. It is often used when people are trying to find someone or asking for information about their location.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used in plural form and often with possessives: 'his whereabouts', 'the whereabouts of the missing dog'. It sounds more formal than simply saying 'where someone is'. Common in police, news, and official contexts, but also used in everyday speech when someone cannot be found.

Example Sentences

Do you know his whereabouts right now?

basic

The police asked about the boy's whereabouts.

basic

We still don't know the cat's whereabouts.

basic

No one knew his whereabouts for two days, and everyone got worried.

natural

If you hear anything about her whereabouts, let me know right away.

natural

The report gives no clue about the missing traveler's whereabouts.

natural