Learning how to say “what” in Japanese is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express this common question word. Whether you prefer a formal or informal approach, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What”
When speaking formally in Japanese, there are several ways to say “what” depending on the context. Here are a few options:
- Nani: This is the most straightforward and widely used term for “what” in formal situations. It is suitable for both questions and statements. For instance, you can say “Nani o shimasu ka?” meaning “What will you do?”
- Dochira: This word literally means “which” but is often used in formal settings to ask “what” when referring to a choice among options. For example, you can ask “Dochira no hou ga ii desu ka?” meaning “What would be better?”
Informal Ways to Say “What”
In casual conversations, you may choose to use different terms to say “what” in Japanese. Here are a few popular informal options:
- Nan: This is a more casual version of “Nani” and is commonly used in everyday speech among friends or family. For example, you can say “Nan o suru no?” meaning “What are you going to do?”
- Nanto: This expression is widely used in Western Japan and has a similar meaning to “Nan.” It is a colloquial form of “Nani to” and is often used in Kansai dialect. For instance, you can say “Nanto iunda?” meaning “What did you say?”
Additional Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you master the nuances of saying “what” in Japanese:
1. Adding Politeness:
To make your question more polite, you can add the suffix “desu ka” at the end of the sentence. For example:
Nani o shimasu ka?
What will you do? (Formal)
2. Using Demonstratives:
In Japanese, adding a demonstrative word like “kono” (this) or “sono” (that) before “what” can provide more context. For example:
Kono mono wa nan desu ka?
What is this?
3. Inquiring about People:
If you want to ask “who” in Japanese, you can use “dare” in both formal and informal situations. For instance:
Dare ga kite imasu ka?
Who is coming?
4. Regional Variations:
While the above expressions are commonly used throughout Japan, there are regional variations, particularly in dialects. For example, in the Kansai dialect, people may use “nanto” instead of “nan.” However, these regional variations are not necessary for most learners.
5. Context Matters:
Remember, understanding the context is vital when choosing the right term for “what” in Japanese. The formality, informality, and regional variations depend on the situation and the people you are interacting with.
With these tips and examples, you are well on your way to effectively expressing “what” in Japanese. Remember to practice using these phrases in various contexts to become more comfortable with their usage. Happy learning!
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