Translation guide
How to ask someone what is wrong or what the problem is in Japanese, depending on the situation and relationship.
What's wrong? (casual)
What's wrong? (polite)
You notice someone seems sad, angry, or worried and want to ask what's bothering them.
Casual and common way to ask 'What's wrong?' or 'What's the matter?' among friends, family, or close colleagues.
You seem down. What's wrong?
Polite version of どうしたの. Use with acquaintances, strangers, or in slightly formal situations.
You look pale. What's wrong?
Literally 'Did something happen?' Used when you suspect a specific event caused the distress. Casual.
Are you crying? What's wrong?
Means 'Are you okay?' Often used as a gentle way to ask if something is wrong, especially when someone seems hurt or unwell.
You fell! Are you okay?
You encounter a problem or something seems off and you want to know what the issue is.
Same phrase as above, but used for situations rather than personal feelings. Very versatile.
The car won't start. What's wrong?
More direct: 'What is the problem?' Suitable for formal or business contexts.
Literally 'Which part is bad?' Used when asking about a malfunction in a machine or device. Casual.
You want to ask what is wrong with someone's health or what symptoms they have.
Polite way to ask 'What's wrong?' in a medical context, literally 'Where does it hurt?' or 'What's the problem?'
What brings you here today? What's wrong?
Means 'Are you feeling unwell?' A softer way to inquire about someone's health.
The phrase '何が間違っていますか？' (nani ga machigatte imasu ka) means 'What is incorrect?' and is not used to ask what's wrong with a person or situation. Stick to the natural expressions above.
There's an error in the system. What's wrong?
The computer isn't working. What's wrong with it?
You look pale. Are you feeling sick?