Translation guide
The English word "what?" is used to ask for information, to express surprise, or to ask someone to repeat something. In Japanese, the equivalent depends heavily on the situation and level of politeness.
The speaker wants to know what something is.
The basic word for 'what'. Used in casual questions. Often followed by particles like が or を.
Before certain sounds (like です, だ, の), 何 is pronounced なん.
それは何ですか。
What is that?
Polite form of 'what is it?'. Use with strangers, superiors, or in formal settings.
お名前は何ですか。
What is your name?
Casual, plain form of 'what is it?'. Used among friends or in informal situations.
The speaker didn't hear or understand and wants the other person to repeat.
The speaker is shocked or can't believe what they heard.
The speaker wants to specify a type or choice.
Means 'what kind of' or 'what' when asking about category or content.
In English, 'what' is used in many idiomatic ways (e.g., 'What a beautiful day!'). These often do not translate directly to 何. For exclamations, Japanese uses patterns like なんて〜 or 〜ね.
Using 何 alone can be too direct. In polite conversation, always use 何ですか or rephrase the question more indirectly.
What book?
What's this?
Polite way to ask 'What did you say?'. Rising intonation.
すみません、何ですか？
Sorry, what did you say?
Interjection meaning 'Huh?' or 'What?'. Very casual. Often combined with 何.
え？もう一度言って。
What? Say it again.
Very blunt, often confrontational 'What?!'. Can be rude; avoid in polite conversation.
Can sound aggressive or dismissive. Use only in very informal, heated situations.
は？何言ってんの？
What? What are you talking about?
Literally 'What did you say?', used to express disbelief. Casual.
何だって？信じられない。
What? I can't believe it.
Expresses 'No way!' or 'It can't be!'. Often used when something unexpected happens.
まさか、彼が辞めるなんて。
What? I can't believe he's quitting.
何の音楽が好きですか。
What kind of music do you like?
Means 'which' when choosing from options. Not directly 'what', but often used in similar contexts.
どの本があなたのですか。
Which book is yours?