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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
What's up
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "What's up?" is correct and can be used in written English
It is often used as a casual salutation similar to "How are you?" or "Hello!", and can be used both informally and in some more formal contexts. For example: In an email to a colleague: "Hey, Jack! What's up?" In a chat message to a friend: "What's up? Want to grab coffee later?"
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
WHAT'S up, Times readers?
News & Media
What's up Walker's sleeve next?
News & Media
What's up?
News & Media
"What's up?" he said.
News & Media
So what's up?
News & Media
Dear Kanye: What's up?
News & Media
"What's up?" Uncanny timing.
News & Media
"So that's what's up".
News & Media
"What's up?" we breathed.
News & Media
"Guy: What's up, dawg?
News & Media
"What's up?" I ask.
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
Use "what's up" primarily in informal settings with people you know well. It's generally not appropriate for formal or professional communication.
⚠ Common error
Avoid starting business emails or addressing superiors with "what's up". Opt for more professional greetings like "Hello" or "Good morning/afternoon".
Linguistic Context
The phrase "what's up" primarily functions as an informal greeting or a casual inquiry about someone's current state or activities. Ludwig shows it's often used in place of 'Hello' or 'How are you?'.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
42%
Academia
30%
Wiki
12%
⚠ Less common in
Formal & Business
4%
Science
6%
Reference
6%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "what's up" is a very common and informal greeting or inquiry, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is grammatically correct and functions primarily to initiate casual conversations or show interest in someone's current activities. While prevalent in News & Media, Academia and Wiki sources, it is generally unsuitable for formal or professional settings. Remember to use it appropriately in context and be mindful of your audience to maintain effective communication.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
what's happening
Similar to "what's up", but can also refer to ongoing events.
how's it going
A common and informal greeting similar to "what's up".
how are you doing
A more formal way to ask about someone's well-being.
what's going on
Can imply concern or curiosity about a particular situation.
what's new
Asks about recent events or changes in someone's life.
what are you doing
Focuses on current activities rather than general well-being.
More alternative expressions(6)
FAQs
How can I respond to "what's up"?
Common responses include "Not much", "Nothing", or describing what you're currently doing. You can also reciprocate the greeting by asking "what's up" back.
Is "what's up" appropriate in professional emails?
Generally, no. It's best to use more formal greetings like "Hello" or "Good morning/afternoon" in professional contexts.
What are some alternatives to "what's up"?
Alternatives include "How's it going?", "What's new?", or "How are you doing?", depending on the context and your relationship with the person.
When is it okay to use "what's up"?
It's suitable in casual conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues. Avoid using it in formal settings, job interviews, or when addressing someone in a position of authority.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
91%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested