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How to Say ‘What is this?’ in Traditional Chinese

這是什麼?

zhè shì shén me

[juh shir shen muh]

💬 Usage Tip: [是什麼] is the basic pattern for asking what something is: [這是什麼?] = "what is this?" You can swap [這] for [那]: [那是什麼?]

Phrase Breakdown

zhè

[juh]

this

Used to point to something near you.

Example

這是什麼菜?

What dish is this?

shì

[shir]

is; are

Links a subject to an identity or description, like 'is' in English.

Example

這是我的飲料。

This is my drink.

什麼

shén me

[shen muh]

what

Used to ask about the identity or meaning of something.

Example

你點的是什麼?

What did you order?

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