How to Say ‘What time?’ in Japanese
何時ですか。
nan ji desu ka
[nan jee dehs kah]
💬 Usage Tip: [何時ですか] is a simple and polite way to ask the time. Very handy when checking transportation schedules.
🇯🇵 In Japan: This can be used by itself, but in travel contexts people often ask more specifically, like [何時に出ますか].
Phrase Breakdown
何時
nan ji
what time
An interrogative asking for the time.
今、何時ですか。
What time is it now?
Words in this phrase
何
nan
[nan]
what
An interrogative word meaning what; here it is part of asking time.
何時ですか。
What time is it?
時
ji
[jee]
o'clock; time
A counter for hours and clock time.
何時ですか。
What time is it?
ですか
desu ka
is it? / are you?
A polite question ending used to ask for information.
明日ですか。
Is it tomorrow?
Words in this phrase
です
desu
[dehs]
is; am; are
A polite copula used to state or ask something formally.
何時ですか。
What time is it?
か
ka
[kah]
question marker
A sentence-ending particle used to make a question.
何時ですか。
What time is it?
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