When communicating with Japanese speakers, it can be helpful to know how to express concern or ask someone what is wrong with them. Having this ability allows you to show empathy and offer assistance when needed. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways to ask “What is wrong with you?” in Japanese, providing tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
1. お体{からだ}の具合{ぐあい}はいかが{ですか}？ (O-karada no guai wa ikaga desu ka?)
This is a polite and formal way to ask someone about their physical condition. It displays concern and respect for their well-being. You can use this phrase in most situations, such as when talking to coworkers, acquaintances, or strangers.
Example:
A: お体の具合はいかがですか？ (O-karada no guai wa ikaga desu ka?)
B: 体調{たいちょう}は少{すこ}し悪{わる}いですが、大丈夫{だいじょうぶ}です。 (Taichō wa sukoshi warui desu ga, daijōbu desu.)
A: お大事{だいじ}に。 (O-daiji ni.)
B: ありがとうございます。 (Arigatō gozaimasu.)
Translation:
A: How are you feeling?
B: I’m a little unwell, but I’m okay.
A: Take care.
B: Thank you.
2. 具合{ぐあい}が悪{わる}いですか？ (Guai ga warui desu ka?)
This is a more direct and formal way to ask if someone is feeling unwell or if something is wrong. It can also be used in professional settings, such as a hospital or a doctor’s office.
Example:
A: 具合が悪いですか？ (Guai ga warui desu ka?)
B: はい、少し調子{ちょうし}が悪いです。 (Hai, sukoshi chōshi ga warui desu.)
A: お大事に。 (O-daiji ni.)
B: ありがとうございます。 (Arigatō gozaimasu.)
Translation:
A: Are you feeling unwell?
B: Yes, I’m a little under the weather.
A: Take care.
B: Thank you.
Informal Expressions:
1. 具合{ぐあい}大丈夫{だいじょうぶ}？ (Guai daijōbu?)
This is a friendly and casual way to ask if everything is okay with someone’s health or well-being. It’s suitable to use with friends, family, and people of similar age or familiarity.
Example:
A: 具合大丈夫？ (Guai daijōbu?)
B: うーん、ちょっとだるいけど大丈夫だよ。ありがとう。 (Ūn, chotto darui kedo daijōbu da yo. Arigatō.)
A: それなら良{い}かった。 (Sore nara yokatta.)
Translation:
A: Are you feeling okay?
B: Well, I’m feeling a bit sluggish, but I’m fine. Thanks.
A: That’s good to hear.
2. 大丈夫{だいじょうぶ}？ (Daijōbu?)
One of the simplest and informal ways to ask someone if they are alright, this expression is widely used among friends and peers. It conveys a casual concern for the person’s well-being.
Example:
A: 大丈夫？ (Daijōbu?)
B: うん、ちょっと調子悪いけど、大丈夫だよ。ありがとう。 (Un, chotto chōshi warui kedo, daijōbu da yo. Arigatō.)
A: そっか、気をつけてね。 (Sokka, ki o tsukete ne.)
Translation:
A: Are you okay?
B: Yeah, I’m feeling a bit off, but I’m fine. Thanks.
A: I see, take care.
Additional Tips:
1. Regional Variations:
Japanese language and culture vary across regions. While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood, there might be local variations in how people ask about someone’s well-being. It’s always beneficial to learn regional customs and adapt to the local dialect if you are planning to visit or live in a specific area.
2. Nonverbal Cues:
In Japanese culture, people often rely on nonverbal cues to express concern. These cues can include facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice. Paying attention to these signals can help you understand someone’s well-being even when they may not explicitly express it.
3. Listening and Empathy:
When asking someone what is wrong, it’s important to actively listen to their response and show empathy. Offering kind words, assistance, or even just a listening ear can be comforting and supportive.
Conclusion:
Being able to ask “What is wrong with you?” in Japanese allows you to express concern and offer help to those in need. Remember to consider the appropriate level of formality based on your relationship with the person you are speaking to. Additionally, paying attention to nonverbal cues and practicing active listening will enhance your ability to understand and assist others effectively.
