If you’ve ever been unsure how to ask someone “What should I do?” or simply express the concept of “What to do” in Japanese, this guide is here to help you navigate through the various ways to convey this idea. We’ll cover both formal and informal expressions, and although we’ll primarily focus on standard Japanese, we’ll also touch upon a few regional variations along the way. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to express “What to do” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When you find yourself in a formal setting or conversing with someone you need to show respect towards, it’s important to use formal language. Here are a few ways to express “What to do” formally:
- “Dō nasaimashitara ii desu ka?” (どうなさいましたらいいですか？) – This is a polite way to ask “What should I/we do?”. It shows respect and is suitable for formal situations such as talking to superiors, strangers, or elders.
- “Dō shimasu ka?” (どうしますか？) – This phrase translates to “What do you think we should do?” and is commonly used in formal conversations or when seeking advice from someone more experienced or knowledgeable.
Informal Expressions:
In informal situations, such as casual conversations with friends, family, or peers, you can opt for a more relaxed and simplified way of expressing “What to do”. Consider these informal expressions:
- “Dō suru?” (どうする？) – This phrase directly translates to “What to do?” in a casual tone. It can be used when seeking suggestions or discussing possible actions with friends or peers.
- “Nani shiyō ka?” (何しようか？) – When you want to ask “What should we do?” in an informal setting, this phrase is a friendly way to initiate a discussion about potential activities or plans.
Tips for Usage:
Now that we’ve explored both formal and informal expressions, let’s delve into some tips and examples to enhance your understanding of how to use them correctly:
1. Tailor your language to the situation:
Consider the level of politeness and formality required based on the circumstances. Always adjust your language accordingly to show respect and maintain appropriate social etiquette.
2. Pay attention to your relationship with the listener:
Your relationship with the person you’re speaking to plays a significant role in deciding whether to use formal or informal language. Use formal expressions when addressing superiors, elders, or strangers, whereas informal expressions suit interactions among friends, siblings, or close colleagues.
3. Add more context:
To clarify your question and provide more context, consider adding further details. For example, instead of just asking “Dō suru?” (What to do?), you can say “Dō suru nogaīidesu ka?” (What do you think I should do?). This will help the listener better understand your expectations.
4. Listen to native speakers:
Pay attention to how native speakers express “What to do” in different situations. By actively observing and imitating their usage, you’ll gain a better sense of what sounds natural and appropriate in various contexts.
Note: Remember, cultural context and non-verbal cues are vital for effective communication in Japanese. Being attentive to the overall situation can immensely enhance your understanding and interaction with others.
Examples:
To provide you with further clarity, here are a few examples showcasing how “What to do” can be expressed in different contexts:
- Formal: Excuse me, what should I do if I missed my train? – Sumimasen, densha ni norikosaremashita ga, dō nasaimashitara ii desu ka?
- Informal: Hey, what do you think we should do this weekend? – Oi, shūmatsu nani shiyō ka?
Now armed with multiple expressions and tips, you’re well-equipped to navigate various situations involving “What to do” in Japanese—whether it’s a formal inquiry or a casual conversation among friends. Remember to adjust your language based on the context and, most importantly, to enjoy learning and practicing Japanese!
頑張ってください！(Ganbatte kudasai!) – Good luck!
