How to Say ‘What is it? (polite question).’ in Japanese
なんですか
nan desu ka
[nahn dess kah]
💬 Usage Tip: [なんですか] = [何ですか]. Use it to ask politely: [お名前は何ですか]. Keep the final [か] clear—it marks a question.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Direct questions can feel strong; adding softeners like [すみません] before the question often sounds more natural in Japan.
Phrase Breakdown
なん
nan
[nahn]
what
なん means “what.” It’s used in questions, often before ですか for polite form: なんですか (“What is it?”).
しゅみ は なん ですか。
What is your hobby?
です
desu
[dess]
(polite copula) is/are
です is the polite copula. In questions like なんですか, it keeps the question polite.
これは なん です か。
What is this?
か
ka
[kah]
question marker
か is a particle that turns a statement into a question, similar to a question mark in polite Japanese.
おなまえ は なん です か。
What is your name?
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
Get Full LessonWhat 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