ENGLISH
REFERENCE

what is more

idiom
Meaning

used to introduce a statement which builds on the preceding statement, but expresses a stronger sentiment.


Examples
SIMPLE

I love this city; what is more, the people are kind.

CONTEXTUAL

The software is easy to learn, and what is more, it is completely free for students.

COMPLEX

The novel captures the brutality of war with unflinching precision; what is more, it finds in that darkness a fragile, unexpected tenderness.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    ain't what it used to was

    Is not what it used to be; (expressing nostalgia).

  2. 02

    come what may

    In spite of anything that might happen; whatever may occur.

  3. 03

    do exactly what it says on the tin

    To do what is described or what one would expect, with no further explanation needed.

  4. 04

    do what

    An intensified version of what? or huh?, expressing surprise or lack of comprehension

  5. 05

    get what one asked for

    Synonym of get what's coming to one.

  6. 06

    give someone what-for

    To admonish or berate; to speak angrily at somebody.

  7. 07

    give what for

    To scold; to punish, especially verbally.

  8. 08

    guess what

    Used to introduce a surprising outcome or one that the hearer is not expected to try to guess.

Last updated April 17, 2026