どなた
Meanings
1
usually written using kana alonehonorific or respectful (sonkeigo)
Polite, honorific pronoun for 'who'. Used when asking about or referring to someone respectfully. More formal than だれ.
Who is that person over there?
Could someone please help me?
Usage patterns
- どなたですかpolite way to ask 'Who is it?' or 'Who are you?'
Excuse me, but who are you?