Learning how to ask “What is something” is an essential skill when studying Japanese. In this guide, we will explore various phrases and expressions to help you master this fundamental concept. We’ll cover both formal and informal ways to ask this question, providing you with tips, examples, and even a few regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What is Something”
When engaging in formal situations or speaking to people you are not familiar with, it’s important to use appropriate language. The following expressions are commonly used to ask “What is something” formally:
1. 何ですか？ (Nandesu ka?)
This is a straightforward and polite way to ask “What is something?” in Japanese. You can use this phrase in various contexts, such as inquiring about an object, place, or concept. Here are a few examples:
日本の首都は何ですか？ (Nihon no shuto wa nandesu ka?) – What is the capital of Japan?
この建物は何ですか？ (Kono tatemono wa nandesu ka?) – What is this building?
2. 何と言いますか？ (Nanto iimasu ka?)
If you wish to specifically ask “What is the name of something?” in a formal manner, this phrase is the perfect choice. Take a look at the following examples:
これは日本語で何と言いますか？ (Kore wa nihongo de nanto iimasu ka?) – What is this called in Japanese?
その映画の監督は何と言いますか？ (Sono eiga no kantoku wa nanto iimasu ka?) – What is the director of that movie called?
Informal Ways to Ask “What is Something”
When speaking with friends or in informal settings, you can use less formal expressions to ask “What is something?”. These phrases are commonly used in casual conversations:
1. 何って？ (Nantte?)
This phrase is a more casual version of “What is something?” and is often used among friends. Here are a few examples of how you can utilize it:
これは何って？ (Kore wa nantte?) – What is this?
彼の仕事は何って？ (Kare no shigoto wa nantte?) – What does he do for a living?
2. 何って言うの？ (Nantte iu no?)
If you want to know what something is called in an informal way, you can use this expression. It adds a casual tone to your question. Check out these examples:
このアイスクリームは何って言うの？ (Kono aisukurīmu wa nantte iu no?) – What is this ice cream called?
あの映画、英語で何って言うの？ (Ano eiga, eigo de nantte iu no?) – What is that movie called in English?
Tips and Additional Information
Now that you know the basic phrases for asking “What is something?” in Japanese, here are a few additional tips to help you navigate this topic:
1. Active Listening and Contextual Understanding
Understanding the response to your question is just as important as asking it. Be sure to actively listen to the answer, as it may contain valuable information that provides context and clarification.
2. Regional Variations
While Japanese has a standard form, there can be minor regional variations in vocabulary and pronunciation. It’s always helpful to familiarize yourself with the specific dialects or phrases used in the area you are visiting, especially if you plan to have conversations with locals.
3. Polite Language
When asking “What is something?” formally, it’s important to use respectful language. Politeness is highly valued in Japanese culture, so using honorifics and respectful phrases will leave a good impression.
4. Contextual Sentence Structure
Japanese sentence structure often places the subject first and the verb at the end. Keep this in mind when forming your questions, and don’t forget to use appropriate particles like “は” (wa), “の” (no), or “を” (o) to indicate the subject, possession, or direction respectively.
With these tips and expressions in mind, you are now equipped to confidently ask “What is something” in Japanese, both formally and casually. Remember, practice and exposure to real-life conversations will help you become more fluent and comfortable with the language. Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
