How to Say ‘How about...?; what do you think?’ in Japanese
はどうですか
wa dou desu ka
[wa doh desu ka]
💬 Usage Tip: Attach this to a topic to ask for an opinion: [キリンはどうですか] = "How about Kirin?" It is polite and very useful.
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is one of the best conversation tools in Japanese. It keeps chat flowing smoothly and politely.
Phrase Breakdown
は
wa
[wa]
topic marker
Marks the thing you are asking about. Written は, pronounced わ.
サッポロはどうですか。
How about Sapporo?
どう
dou
[doh]
how; what about
Used when asking for someone's opinion or impression.
サントリーはどうですか。
How about Suntory?
です
desu
[desu]
is; am; are
Polite copula used in questions and statements.
サッポロはどうですか。
How about Sapporo?
か
ka
[ka]
question marker
Turns the sentence into a polite question.
サントリーはどうですか。
How about Suntory?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager