Translation guide
This entry covers how to ask 'what is it?' in Japanese, depending on formality, context, and what 'it' refers to.
The most common, everyday way to ask 'what is it?' when pointing at something or referring to something unknown.
Polite form. Use with strangers, superiors, or in formal settings. The ですか adds politeness.
Casual, masculine. Often used by men. Can sound blunt or surprised.
何だ、これ？
What the heck is this?
When you notice something is off and want to ask 'what is it?' meaning 'what's the matter?'
Casual, caring. Used when someone seems troubled or you want to know what happened.
どうしたの？
What's the matter?
顔色が悪いけど、どうしたの？
You look pale, what's wrong?
Polite version of どうしたの. Suitable for formal situations or when speaking to someone you don't know well.
どうしましたか？
What's the matter?
Casual, implies 'did something happen?' Often used when you suspect a problem.
何かあったの？
Did something happen?
When someone refers to something and you need them to specify what 'it' is.
Casual. それって emphasizes 'that thing you just mentioned'. Very common in conversation.
それって何？
What's that? (that thing you mentioned)
Polite version. Use when you need clarification in a formal context.
それは何ですか？
What is that?
Casual. Means 'What are you talking about?' or 'What do you mean?' when you don't understand the reference.
何のこと？
What do you mean?
When someone knocks on the door or calls your name, and you respond 'what is it?' meaning 'who is it?' or 'what do you want?'
Polite and neutral. Used when answering a knock or when someone calls you. Equivalent to 'Yes?' or 'What is it?'
（ノックに）はい？
(to a knock) Yes? / What is it?
Casual, can sound abrupt. Use with close friends or family when they call your name.
（名前を呼ばれて）何？
(when called) What?
Very polite. Used when answering the door or phone to ask 'Who is it?' Literally 'Which honorable person is it?'
（インターホンに）どちら様ですか？
(at the intercom) Who is it?
In Japanese, 'it' is often omitted. Saying それは何ですか is fine, but in many contexts just 何ですか or even 何？ is more natural. Don't force a pronoun when it's clear from context.
Rising intonation on 何？ or 何ですか？ makes it a question. Flat intonation can sound like an exclamation ('What!').