What gives

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tufguy

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I would like to know about "What gives". It means "What is wrong". Am I correct?

What gives with Tom? He is acting weird.

Could you please tell me what is the correct way to use this phrase?
 
I would like to know about "What gives". It means "What is wrong". Am I correct?

That's one possible meaning. It has other possible meanings depending on context. All of them are very informal and borderline slang.

What gives with Tom? He is acting weird.
Could you please tell me what is the correct way to use this phrase?

Your usage is correct in that context.
 
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Could you please tell me what is the correct way to use this phrase?
I don't like this phrase and never use it.

You don't need to use it, either. Just understand if you hear or read it.
 
I think it is more AmE than BrE. I aleo suspect that it has some etymological roots in Yiddish.
 
I would like to know about "What gives?" It means "What is wrong?" Am I correct?

What gives with Tom? He is acting weird.

Could you please tell me [STRIKE]what is[/STRIKE] the correct way to use this phrase?

emsr2d2
 
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