Why? /Why not?

[optimistic pessimist]

Dear all,

A: I don't want to go to school today.
B: Why not?
A: Just because.

In the dialogue above, if B just says "Why?", does it sound strange? Do you always say ""Why not?" after a negative statement?

OP

 

[teechar]

In the dialogue above, if B just says "Why?", does it sound strange?

No, it's not necessarily strange. It's possible. It depends on who is saying it and on how they say it.

 

[GoesStation]

At least in American English, Why not? is much more common but just Why? is possible.