Translation guide
A common English phrase used to ask about a situation, often implying something unusual or interesting is happening. In Japanese, the natural expression depends heavily on context: whether you're asking about a current event, someone's personal situation, or just making casual conversation.
You notice something unusual, noisy, or interesting and want to know what is happening right now.
What's going on? Did something happen?
A more direct translation, literally 'What is happening?'. Used when you want to know the facts of a situation, often in a slightly more serious or curious tone.
It's noisy outside; what's going on?
A formal or literary expression meaning 'What is the matter?' or 'What's going on?'. Used in polite or official contexts, or when you are surprised by a commotion.
What's going on with this commotion?
You're checking in on a friend or acquaintance, asking how they are or what's new in their life.
A casual, friendly way to ask 'How have you been?' or 'What's going on with you lately?'. Very common among friends.
Long time no see! What's going on?
Literally 'Did something happen?'. Used when you suspect something is wrong or when someone seems different. It implies concern.
You seem down. What's going on?
A casual way to ask 'How are things?' or 'How's it going?'. Focuses on someone's condition or state.
You're greeting someone informally and want to know what they're up to, similar to 'What's up?'.
The most basic casual greeting meaning 'How are you?' or 'What's up?'. Often used as a simple hello.
Hey, what's going on?
A casual way to ask 'What have you been up to?' or 'How are you doing?'. Slightly more personal than 元気？.
What's going on with you lately?
Literally 'What are you doing?'. Used as a casual conversation opener, especially in messages or when you see someone unexpectedly.
What's going on right now?
The literal translation '何が起こっているの？' is grammatically correct but can sound stiff or overly dramatic in casual conversation. Use the context-appropriate phrases above instead.
What is happening? (literal, can sound unnatural in casual settings)
In Japanese, you often address the person by name or title instead of using 'you'. For example, '田中さん、どうしたんですか？' (Tanaka-san, what's going on?) is more natural than using a pronoun.
How's the new job? What's going on?