Combine no matter with a wh-word to mean it makes no difference, as in no matter what happens, stay calm, using the present tense for future reference, never will. No matter how is followed directly by an adjective or adverb, then the subject and verb, as in no matter how difficult it is, we’ll manage.
Grammar Rule
No matter combines with a wh-word to mean it makes no difference, and the clause uses the present tense for future reference, never will.
No Matter + Wh-: Rules and Examples
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| no matter what | it makes no difference what | No matter what happens, stay calm. |
| no matter how | + adjective/adverb + subject + verb | No matter how difficult it is, we’ll manage. |
| no matter where / who | it makes no difference where/who | No matter where you go, I’ll find you. No matter who calls, tell them I’m busy. |
Remember: no matter + wh-word, present tense, never will; no matter how + adjective/adverb + subject + verb.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using no matter plus a wh-word correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
B2-42. No matter + wh-words
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does no matter what mean?
It makes no difference what, as in no matter what happens, stay calm.
What structure follows no matter how?
An adjective or adverb, then the subject and verb, as in no matter how difficult it is, we’ll manage.
What tense do these clauses use for future reference?
The present tense, never will, as in no matter what happens, not no matter what will happen.
Can no matter combine with where and who?
Yes, as in no matter where you go, I’ll find you, and no matter who calls, tell them I’m busy.