Asking for movie showtimes. The first show has sold out and I say: What's/when's th

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B45

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Asking for movie showtimes. The first show has sold out and I say:

What's/when's
the next showing?

Are both okay here?
 

MikeNewYork

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I would use "when's".
 
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B45

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Would you consider what's incorrect or nonsensical?
 
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MikeNewYork

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"What's" asks about the next movie title, not the time.
 

Barb_D

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I"m not sure I agree, *in this context.*

If you have just asked to purchase tickets for a specific movie and have been told that the 5:30 showing has sold out, then "what's the next showing" would give enough information to say "when is the next time that this movie I just asked about is showing at this theater for which tickets are available."
 

MikeNewYork

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"When's " would still be better in that context.
 

Barb_D

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I agree it's the better choice but "what's" is not "nonsensical" as asked by the OP.
 
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