How to Say “Who is This?” in Japanese: A Comprehensive Guide

Greeting someone and asking about their identity is a fundamental aspect of human interaction. In Japanese, expressing the question “Who is this?” requires understanding a few different phrases and the appropriate context. Whether you want to ask formally or informally, this guide will provide you with the essential phrases, useful tips, and practical examples. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Japanese language!

Formal ways to say “Who is this?”

When it comes to formal situations, such as meeting someone for the first time or speaking to someone of higher status, it is crucial to use respectful language. Here are three phrases you can use:

1. Anata wa dare desu ka? – This is a direct translation of “Who is this?” and is considered polite in formal settings.
2. Kochira wa o-nanji desu ka? – Literally meaning “May I know your honorable name?” this phrase shows particular respect and is suitable for formal introductions.
3. O-karadano kata wa ikagadesu ka? – This phrase roughly translates to “Who might you be?” and is a more indirect but still polite way to ask for someone’s identity.

Informal ways to say “Who is this?”

When speaking casually or with friends, you can use less formal language. Here are three common phrases:

1. Kore wa dare? – This phrase translates to “Who is this?” and is used in informal situations. However, keep in mind that it can sound slightly impolite if used in a formal setting.
2. Ano hito wa dare? – Literally meaning “Who is that person?” this phrase is commonly used in everyday conversations with peers.
3. Ano hito wa nan to iu hito? – This phrase translates to “What do you call that person?” and can be used to ask for someone’s identity in a casual manner.

Tips for using “Who is this?” in Japanese

Now that you have learned various ways to say “Who is this?” in Japanese, here are some additional tips and examples to help you navigate different situations:

1. Pay attention to context

Before asking someone’s name, observe the situation and decide whether to use formal or informal language. It’s essential to choose the appropriate level of politeness based on factors such as age, status, and relationship with the person you are speaking to.

Example: If you are meeting a supervisor at work, saying “Anata wa dare desu ka?” (Who is this?) would be more appropriate than using a casual phrase.

2. Use appropriate honorifics

In formal settings, it is customary to use honorifics to show respect. When addressing someone in a formal conversation, adding “-san” after their surname is a safe option. For example:

Example: If the person’s name is Yamada, you can say “Yamada-san” to express politeness.

3. Consider regional variations

While the phrases mentioned earlier are commonly used throughout Japan, it’s important to note that some regional variations and dialects exist. These variations might include differences in pronunciation or vocabulary. If you encounter such variations, it’s best to learn and use the local expressions to ensure better understanding and cultural appreciation.

4. Practice proper pronunciation

Pronunciation plays a vital role in effective communication. To make sure you are understood correctly, pay attention to the correct pronunciation of each phrase. Listen to native speakers or use resources like language learning apps to refine your Japanese pronunciation.

Examples:

Let’s now explore some examples of how to use the phrases we’ve learned:

• Formal: Anata wa dare desu ka?
  (Who is this?)
• Formal: Kochira wa o-nanji desu ka?
  (May I know your honorable name?)
• Formal: O-karadano kata wa ikagadesu ka?
  (Who might you be?)
• Informal: Kore wa dare?
  (Who is this?)
• Informal: Ano hito wa dare?
  (Who is that person?)
• Informal: Ano hito wa nan to iu hito?
  (What do you call that person?)