00 / Clauses & Questions
No matter + wh- clauses
The structure 'no matter' followed by a wh- clause expresses that a condition or circumstance does not change the final result. It functions as a concessive connector, similar in meaning to 'regardless of'.
B2Upper Intermediate
01 / Overview
This structure introduces a concessive clause. It indicates that while several possibilities exist (who, what, where, how), the outcome remains the same. It is frequently used to emphasize determination or an inevitable truth.
- It can appear at the beginning or the end of a sentence.
- When the 'no matter' clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma.
- The verb in the wh- clause often takes the present simple tense, even when referring to the future.
02 / Form
No matter + wh- word + subject + verb
The phrase is followed by a question word (who, what, which, where, when, how) and a subject-verb clause. Note that subject-verb inversion is not used.
03 / Examples
04 / No matter vs. -ever
Both forms are grammatically interchangeable in most contexts. However, 'no matter' often provides slightly more emphasis on the lack of influence the condition has on the result.
| Structure | Example | Register |
|---|---|---|
| No matter + wh- | No matter what you say... | Standard / Neutral |
| -ever words | Whatever you say... | Neutral / Informal |
05 / Common mistakes
No matter what does he say, I won't change my mind.
No matter what he says, I won't change my mind.
Do not use question word order (inversion) after 'no matter'.
No matter how you are tired, you must finish the report.
No matter how tired you are, you must finish the report.
When using 'how', the adjective or adverb must follow 'how' directly.
06 / Practice
Rewrite using 'no matter': Although it is very expensive, I am going to buy that car.
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Answer: No matter how expensive it is, I am going to buy that car.
Why: The 'how + adjective' structure is used to replace 'although' when emphasizing the degree of a quality.
Complete the sentence: No matter ______ (who / call), tell them I am busy.
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Answer: who calls
Why: The present simple is used in the 'no matter' clause to refer to a future possibility.
Correct the error: No matter where do you live, the rules are the same.
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Answer: No matter where you live, the rules are the same.
Why: The clause following 'no matter' uses statement word order (subject + verb), not question word order.