Learning how to say “What does it mean?” in Japanese is an essential step in understanding and effectively communicating in the language. Whether you’re a beginner or have some knowledge of Japanese, this guide will help you master this important phrase. In this article, we will cover both formal and informal ways to ask the question, providing various regional tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
In formal situations, such as when speaking to your seniors, teachers, or strangers, it is important to use polite language. Here are a few ways to express “What does it mean?” formally:
1. どういう意味ですか？ (dō iu imi desu ka?)
This is the most common and widely used formal phrase to ask “What does it mean?” in Japanese. It is a straightforward and respectful way to inquire about the meaning of something.
2. どういうことですか？ (dō iu koto desu ka?)
This expression is slightly more general and can be used when seeking clarification or further explanation about a particular concept or statement. It conveys a similar meaning to “What does it mean?” in English.
Informal Expressions
In casual or informal contexts, such as when talking to friends, family members, or peers, you can use less formal language to ask the question. Here are a few informal ways to express “What does it mean?” in Japanese:
1. 何が意味するの？ (nani ga imi suru no?)
This is a commonly used informal phrase to ask “What does it mean?” in Japanese. It sounds friendly and natural when speaking with close acquaintances or people of a similar age.
2. 何って意味？ (nan tte imi?)
This expression is even more casual and is often used in everyday conversations among friends. It is a short form of asking “What does it mean?” and provides a relaxed tone.
Tips and Examples
Tone and Context
When asking “What does it mean?” in Japanese, the appropriate tone and level of politeness may vary depending on the situation. Here are a few tips to help you navigate:
- Always use formal expressions when speaking to superiors, strangers, or in professional settings.
- Informal expressions are suitable when talking to friends or peers of similar age.
- Consider your relationship with the person you’re speaking to, the context, and the level of formality required.
Example Conversations
Let’s take a look at some sample conversations that demonstrate the usage of different forms of “What does it mean?” in Japanese:
Formal Dialogue:
A: この言葉の意味は何ですか？ (kono kotoba no imi wa nan desu ka?)
B: それは「友達」を意味します。(sore wa “tomodachi” o imi shimasu.)
A: ありがとうございます。(arigatō gozaimasu.)
Informal Dialogue:
A: この言葉ってどういう意味？ (kono kotoba tte dō iu imi?)
B: それは「愛」を意味するんだよ。(sore wa “ai” o imi suru n da yo.)
A: なるほど、ありがとう！(naruhodo, arigatō!)
Regional Variations
Japanese is spoken in multiple regions, and small variations in phrasing can be found. However, when asking “What does it mean?” in Japanese, the formal and informal expressions listed above are commonly understood throughout the country. Regional variations don’t significantly impact the core meaning of the question.
In Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned different ways to ask “What does it mean?” in Japanese, you can confidently seek clarification or gain a deeper understanding of the language. Remember to consider the formality of the situation and choose the appropriate expression accordingly. With practice and exposure to real-life conversations, you’ll become more natural in using these phrases. So, keep exploring the Japanese language, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and enjoy your language learning journey!
