どちら
also: どっち
Meanings
1
which way; which direction; where
usually written using kana alone
Polite form for asking about direction or location. どちら is more polite than どっち.
Which way is the station?
Where is the exit?
2
usually written using kana alone
Used when choosing between two alternatives. どちら is polite; どっち is casual.
Which would you like, coffee or tea?
Which one is better?
3
usually written using kana alone
Polite way to ask 'who', often used in formal contexts or when referring to a person indirectly. Commonly seen in どちら様.
See also: どちら様
Excuse me, but who are you?
Who is calling, please?
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉と〈事〉、どちらが〈形容詞〉ですかwhich of A and B is more ~?
Which do you like more, coffee or tea?
- 〈場所〉はどちらですかwhere is ~? (polite)
Where is the station?