Gaining knowledge of common phrases in a foreign language helps to enhance communication and foster deeper connections with native speakers. If you find yourself in a situation of uncertainty or confusion, saying “What now?” can be particularly useful. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express this phrase in Japanese, including formal and informal ways, while also providing tips, examples, and a glimpse into regional variations, when necessary. So, let’s dive into the world of Japanese and discover how to say “What now?”!
Formal Expressions
In formal contexts, it is crucial to choose appropriate language to convey respect and maintain a polite atmosphere. Here are a few formal ways to express “What now?” in Japanese:
1. どうなさいますか (Dou nasaimasu ka?)
2. どうなさいましたか (Dou nasaimashita ka?)
3. いかがなさいますか (Ikaga nasaimasu ka?)
4. いかがなさいましたか (Ikaga nasaimashita ka?)
The above expressions can be used when speaking to someone of higher social status or in formal settings, such as business meetings or events. By using these phrases, you showcase your respect and willingness to defer to the other person’s decisions or guidance.
Here’s an example of using these formal expressions:
Person A: お客様、これからどうなさいますか？ (Okyakusama, kore kara dou nasaimasu ka?)
Person B: すみません、ちょっと待ってください。(Sumimasen, chotto matte kudasai.)
Person A: かしこまりました。(Kashikomarimashita.)
In the above conversation, Person A, who is addressing a customer, uses a formal expression to ask “What now?” After receiving a reply, they respond politely to show understanding.
Informal Expressions
When conversing with friends, family, or acquaintances in a casual setting, informal language comes into play. The following phrases are some popular ways to say “What now?” in an informal manner:
1. 今、どうする？ (Ima, dou suru?)
2. 今、どうすんの？ (Ima, dou sun no?)
3. ええと、どうしよう？ (Eeto, dou shiyou?)
4. えっと、どうする？ (Etto, dou suru?)
These expressions are suitable for interactions with close friends, siblings, or people of similar age and familiarity. Using informal language adds a sense of informality and camaraderie to your conversations.
Let’s take a look at an example:
Person A: ランチ終わったら、どうする？ (Ranchi owattara, dou suru?)
Person B: 映画でも見に行く？ (Eiga demo mi ni iku?)
Person A: いいね！ (Ii ne!)
In this casual conversation, Person A asks “What now?” in an informal manner, to which Person B suggests going to watch a movie. Person A responds positively to the suggestion.
Tips for Effective Communication
When using these expressions, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to enhance your communication:
- Pay attention to the context and relationship with the person you are speaking to. Use formal language with people who are older or have a higher rank, while opting for informal language with friends or peers.
- Observe the situation and adjust your approach accordingly. Formality levels may vary depending on the setting, such as workplace or social gatherings.
- Utilize appropriate body language and facial expressions to convey your intentions along with the spoken words.
- Practice listening skills to understand the response and be ready for follow-up questions or actions.
Regional Variations
While the Japanese language is relatively consistent across regions, there may be slight variations in expressions and accents. Let’s explore one such regional variation:
In the Kansai region, which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto, people often use the phrase “いったいどないなっとったらええん？ (Ittai donai nattara een?)” to mean “What now?” The word “donai” is specific to the Kansai dialect and replaces the more standard “dou” found in other parts of Japan. This dialect adds a unique touch to the Japanese language in the Kansai area.
In Conclusion
Mastering how to say “What now?” in Japanese can greatly contribute to your language skills and foster better connections with Japanese speakers. By incorporating both formal and informal expressions into your vocabulary, you’ll be able to adapt to various situations and comfortably express your thoughts. Remember to consider the context, relationships, and regional variations while communicating effectively. Practice, explore, and enjoy the journey of language learning!
