czemu

Czemu is a Polish interrogative word meaning "why" or "for what reason." It is commonly used in spoken Polish and in informal writing, and it often serves as a more emotional or regional alternative to the standard dlaczego. Historically, czemu is linked to older inflectional forms of the word co (what) and appears as a form used to ask about motive or purpose.

Usage: It typically introduces questions about causes or purposes, such as "Czemu nie poszedłeś na zajęcia?" or "Czemu to robisz?" In many contexts czemu is interchangeable with dlaczego, though dlaczego is preferred in formal writing. It can also function as an exclamation, "Czemu!" expressing surprise or frustration.

Etymology and variation: Czemu remains a characteristically colloquial or regional form; in standard writing, writers may choose dlaczego for formal contexts. It is especially common in everyday speech, dialogue in fiction, and media. Related expressions include "po co" (for what purpose) and other interrogatives that ask for motive or intention.

See also: dlaczego; po co.