Mastering conversational phrases in different languages can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively. Understanding how to ask someone “what do you mean?” in Japanese is a valuable skill that can help you clarify misunderstandings. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of expressing this phrase, with some tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions
If you are in a formal or business setting, it’s important to use polite language to show respect. Here are some formal ways to say “what do you mean?” in Japanese:
- 何を意味していますか？(Nani o imi shite imasu ka?) – This is the most polite and formal way to ask for clarification. Use this when talking to superiors, colleagues, or strangers.
- どういう意味ですか？(Dou iu imi desu ka?) – This phrase is still formal but slightly less polite than the previous one. It can be used in various formal situations, such as meeting new people or during business discussions.
2. Informal Expressions
If you are in a casual or friendly setting, you can use less formal language to ask “what do you mean?” Here are some informal ways to express this phrase:
- 何ってこと？(Nan tte koto?) – This is a common and informal way of asking someone to explain further. It can be used with friends, family, or peers.
- 何が言いたいの？(Nani ga iitai no?) – Use this phrase among close friends or in casual situations to ask someone what they are trying to say.
3. Examples
Let’s look at a few examples to help you understand how to use these phrases in context:
Formal:
Sensei, 何を意味していますか？私には理解できません。(Sensei, nani o imi shite imasu ka? Watashi ni wa rikai dekimasen.)
Translation: Teacher, what do you mean? I don’t understand.
Informal:
友達、何ってこと？もっと教えてくれる？(Tomodachi, nan tte koto? Motto oshiete kureru?)
Translation: Friend, what do you mean? Can you explain more?
4. Regional Variations
While the Japanese language is relatively standardized across regions, there might be some slight variations in local dialects or colloquialisms. Here are a couple of examples:
- どういうこと？(Dou iu koto?) – This phrase is commonly used in the Kansai region of Japan, including cities like Osaka and Kyoto. It is similar in meaning and usage to “what do you mean?”
- 何を言ってるの？(Nani o utteru no?) – This expression is commonly heard in the Tokyo dialect and is used informally to ask someone what they are saying or trying to convey.
Conclusion
Being able to express “what do you mean?” in Japanese can greatly enhance your communication skills. Remember to adjust your level of politeness based on the situation by using either formal or informal expressions. Practice using these phrases with friends or language exchange partners to become more comfortable. Whether you’re speaking formally or informally, these phrases will help you avoid misunderstandings and improve your overall fluency in Japanese.
Now that you have learned various ways to say “what do you mean?” in Japanese, go ahead and put your new knowledge into practice! Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
