Learning how to say “what” in Japanese is an essential part of mastering the language. This guide will walk you through the formal and informal ways of expressing “what” and provide useful tips and examples along the way. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What”
In formal settings, such as speaking to someone of higher social status or unfamiliar individuals, it is important to use appropriate vocabulary and expressions. Here are a few formal ways to say “what” in Japanese:
- 何 (nani): This is the most commonly used term for “what” in formal situations. It is a neutral term that can be used in various contexts. For instance, to ask “What is your name?” in a formal setting, you would say “お名前は何ですか?” (O-namae wa nani desu ka?).
- なんと (nanto): This is a more formal and polite variant of “nani.” It is used in formal speeches, business meetings, or when showing respect to someone. For example, if you want to ask “What did you say?” formally, you would say “何とおっしゃいましたか?” (Nanto osshaimashita ka?).
- 何事 (nanigoto): This expression is used to convey a sense of seriousness. It is often used in formal situations to ask “What is the matter?” or “What’s happening?” For instance, if you encounter a serious situation and need to ask “What happened here?” formally, you would say “ここで何事がありましたか?” (Koko de nanigoto ga arimashita ka?”).
Informal Ways to Say “What”
In casual conversations with friends, family, or peers, you can use more relaxed language. Here are a few informal ways to say “what” in Japanese:
- 何 (nani): Just like in formal settings, “nani” is the most common way to say “what” informally as well. However, when used in casual speech, it may be shortened to “nanda” or “nanka”.
- どう (dou): This term is often used in informal speech to mean “how” or “what” depending on the context. For example, if you are asked how you are doing, you can respond with “元気どう?” (Genki dou?), meaning “How’s it going?”
- なんて (nante): This expression is used to convey surprise, disbelief, or emphasis. In informal conversations, it can be added after certain words to mean “what a (noun/verb)!” For example, if you want to say “What a beautiful view!” informally, you can say “なんて美しい景色だ!” (Nante utsukushii keshiki da!).
Tips and Examples
Here are some tips and examples to help you understand and use “what” in Japanese effectively:
1. Pay attention to tone and formality:
The choice of words and expressions to say “what” depends on the formality of the situation. Be mindful of your tone and the appropriate level of politeness while interacting with others.
Tip: When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of being too formal than too casual, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
2. Context matters:
The meaning of “what” in Japanese can vary based on the context, so pay attention to the situation in which it is being used. This will help you choose the right phrase or word for the given situation.
Example: If someone asks you, “What do you want to eat?” you can respond with “何が好きですか?” (Naniga suki desu ka?) to mean “What do you like?”
3. Use appropriate intonation:
The way you pronounce “what” can convey different meanings or emotions. Experiment with intonation and listen to native Japanese speakers to grasp the nuances of intonation for different situations.
Example: Saying “なに” (nani) with a rising tone at the end can indicate a surprised or questioning tone.
4. Expand your vocabulary:
While “nani” is the most common term for “what,” it’s beneficial to learn synonyms and other related expressions to enhance your language skills. This will allow you to communicate more effectively and understand different nuances.
5. Practice with native speakers:
The best way to improve your Japanese language skills is by practicing with native speakers. Utilize language exchange programs, find conversation partners, or take advantage of online language communities to engage in meaningful conversations and get feedback on your pronunciation and usage.
With these tips and examples in mind, you are well on your way to confidently expressing “what” in Japanese. Remember to practice regularly and immerse yourself in the language to reinforce your skills. 頑張ってください! (Ganbatte kudasai!) Good luck!
