Whichever means any one of, or no matter which: a choice from a known set of options. Choose whichever colour matches the curtains. Whichever route we take, the journey will last about an hour. You don't have to list the options, but the listener can picture them.
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whichever + noun / whichever of + defined set / whichever + clause
- Choose whichever colour matches the curtains.
- Whichever route we take, the journey will last about an hour.
- You can use whichever desk is free.
What changed
First versionYou can use whichever desk are free.
RevisionYou can use whichever desk is free.
Any free desk sounds like several desks, so the verb goes plural: whichever desk are free. But desk after whichever is singular, so the verb is too: whichever desk is free.
Whatever is a choice with no limits: Eat whatever you want. Whichever is a choice from known options: There are three cakes; take whichever you want. Which in a question asks you to choose: Which desk is free?
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You choose one of two available rooms: Use whichever room ___ quieter.
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is — You choose one room, and room is singular, so is. The fact that there are two rooms doesn't change the verb.
Offer a guest a choice of seats, dishes or films. Use whichever.
Take whichever room has the better view.
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