Learning how to say “What about” in Japanese is a crucial step towards improving your conversational skills. This versatile phrase allows you to inquire about various topics and engage in meaningful discussions. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express “What about” in Japanese, with useful tips, examples, and even regional variations in some cases.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When using the phrase “What about” in formal situations, there are several ways to convey your intention. The choice of expression depends on the context and level of politeness required. Here are some formal phrases you can use:
- “Ni tsuite dou desu ka?” – This literal translation of “What about” is a versatile and respectful way to inquire about something. It maintains a polite tone and can be used in various settings.
- “Sono hou wa dou desu ka?” – This phrase directly translates to “What about that aspect?” It allows you to focus on a specific point while maintaining formality.
- “Dou omoimasu ka?” – Utilizing this expression, you are indirectly asking, “What do you think about it?” It allows for a more thoughtful response and can be used in professional discussions.
Informal Expressions
In casual conversations, it is important to adapt your language to the appropriate level of familiarity. Below are some informal ways to say “What about” in Japanese:
- “Datte?” – This expression is a concise and common way to ask “What about” in a casual, friendly manner. It can be used between friends or in informal settings.
- “Sou iu to?” – By using this phrase, you are directly asking, “Is it like that?” It is an informal expression that demonstrates your interest in the topic being discussed.
- “Tte?” – This simple phrase denotes curiosity and can be used among close friends or in informal group conversations. It is a shortened form of “Sou iu to” mentioned earlier.
Tips and Usage Examples
To effectively use these “What about” expressions, it’s crucial to consider the context, tone, and level of politeness required in each situation. Here are some practical tips and example conversations to help you understand their usage:
Tip 1: Adjusting your tone
Remember to adjust your tone, choice of words, and level of politeness according to the setting and relationship with the person you are speaking to. Being aware of these nuances will ensure your interactions are respectful and appropriate.
Example Conversation 1:
Person A: Ni tsuite dou desu ka? (What about that?)
Person B: Sou iu koto ni tsuite wa, chottomatte kangaete mimasu. (Regarding that matter, I will think about it for a moment.)
Tip 2: Using particles
In Japanese, particles play a crucial role in sentence structure and clarify the intended meaning. Here are some examples of how particles can be used with the “What about” expressions:
Example Conversation 2:
Person C: Kyou wa doko ikou ka? (Where should we go today?)
Person D: Sono hou wa doudesu ka? (What about that direction?)
Tip 3: Regional Variations
While Japanese is largely standardized, there can be regional variations in expressions and dialects. Here’s an example of a regional variation:
Example Conversation 3:
Person E: Saikin nani shiteru? (What have you been up to lately?) [Regional variation]
Person F: Dou da tte? (What about it?) [Regional variation]
Remember that regional variations should only be used when communicating with people from the same area or if you are familiar with the specific dialect. In most cases, using standard Japanese will be sufficient and widely understood.
Conclusion
Mastering the phrase “What about” in Japanese is a valuable skill that greatly expands your ability to engage in conversations and discussions. By understanding the formal and informal expressions presented in this guide, as well as the provided tips and examples, you are well on your way to confidently using this versatile phrase in various contexts. Remember to adjust your language to the appropriate level of formality and respect, and enjoy exploring the richness of the Japanese language!
