Gaining basic language skills is a wonderful way to explore different cultures and connect with people from around the world. Japanese, with its unique alphabet and rich cultural nuances, is an intriguing language to learn. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “What is this?” in Japanese, covering both formal and informal expressions. While some regional variations exist, we’ll primarily focus on common phrases used across Japan.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What is this?”
When communicating formally in Japanese, it’s essential to use polite language. Here are a few formal expressions to ask “What is this?”:
“これは何ですか？”
Romaji: “Kore wa nan desu ka?”
In this phrase, “kore” means “this,” “wa” is the particle used to mark the subject, “nan” translates to “what,” and “desu ka” is the polite way to turn a sentence into a question. Together, they form the question “What is this?” in a respectful manner.
Informal Ways to Say “What is this?”
When conversing with close friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use more informal expressions. Here are a few ways to ask “What is this?” in an informal setting:
“これは何？”
Romaji: “Kore wa nani?”
In this casual expression, “nani” is an alternative form of “nan” meaning “what.” By removing the polite ending “desu ka,” the phrase becomes more relaxed and suitable for informal conversations.
Tips for Understanding the Responses
Now that you know how to ask “What is this?” in Japanese, it’s equally important to understand the possible responses. Here are a few tips to help you:
- The Japanese language pays attention to context, so observe the object or situation being referred to.
- Listen for words related to the category or function of the object you’re asking about; they often appear before the noun.
- Watch for the particles “wa” (は) and “ga” (が). “Wa” typically marks the subject, while “ga” is used to identify the object.
Let’s look at a simple example:
You ask: “Kore wa nan desu ka?” (What is this?)
Response: “Kore wa tokei desu.” (This is a watch.)
In this case, the word “tokei” (watch) directly follows the subject marker “wa,” giving you the answer you were seeking.
Examples of Asking “What is this?” in Different Scenarios
Now, let’s explore several real-life scenarios where you might want to ask “What is this?” in Japanese:
Scenario 1: At a Restaurant
You ask: “Kore wa nan desu ka?” (What is this?)
Response: “Kore wa sushi desu.” (This is sushi.)
Scenario 2: In a Store
You ask: “Kore wa nan desu ka?” (What is this?)
Response: “Kore wa toshokan desu.” (This is a library.)
Scenario 3: During Sightseeing
You ask: “Kore wa nan desu ka?” (What is this?)
Response: “Kore wa sensouji desu.” (This is Sensoji Temple.)
Scenario 4: With a Local Friend
You ask: “Kore wa nani?” (What is this?)
Response: “Kore wa ramen da yo!” (This is ramen!)
Remember, the responses can vary depending on the specific situations, objects, or personal preferences.
Conclusion
Congratulations on discovering how to say “What is this?” in Japanese! Learning these phrases will help you engage in conversations, deepen your understanding of Japanese culture, and form connections with native speakers. We covered both formal and informal expressions, along with tips for understanding the responses you may receive. Practice these phrases in different scenarios, and soon you’ll be expressing yourself confidently in Japanese!
