何を
Meanings
1
An interjection expressing surprise, disbelief, or a request for clarification. Often used in casual conversation.
What! That can't be true.
What? Apologizing now doesn't help.
2
Adverbial use asking for a reason or cause. Often used in rhetorical questions or expressions of puzzlement.
Why are you in such a hurry?
On what grounds do you say that?
Expressions
- 何を隠そうto be frank with you; to tell you the truth; I'm going to lay my cards on the table
- 何をするにもin everything one does; no matter what one does
- 何をかいわんやwhat can you say?; what more is there to say?
- 何を言うてんねんwhat the hell are you saying?
- 何を言うとんねんwhat the hell are you saying?
- 何を言ってんねんwhat the hell are you saying?; what are you talking about?