Whether you're navigating the streets of Kyoto, chatting with locals, or preparing for a language proficiency test, learning how to ask questions in Japanese is a key communication skill. It's not just about memorizing vocabulary. It's about understanding the grammar structure, choosing the right level of politeness, and using each question naturally in context.
In this guide, you'll explore the essential Japanese question words: Who (だれ), What (なに), When (いつ), Where (どこ), and Why (なぜ). Each section includes clear examples, polite and casual forms, usage tips, and common learner mistakes.
By the end of this article, you'll be able to ask questions confidently and more naturally in everyday Japanese conversations.
In Japanese, questions are formed by adding the particle "か" (ka) to the end of a sentence, which functions as a marker indicating that the sentence is a question. For instance, 「お元気ですか？」(o-genki desu ka?) translates to “How are you?” in English. Lets learn some of the basis Japanese Question Words.
In Japanese, "Who" is typically expressed using だれ (dare). It is a casual and commonly used term when asking about someone’s identity. For polite or formal situations, the word どなた (donata) is preferred.
Examples:
Want to understand particles like wa better? Check out our Japanese particles guide.
Tip: In formal situations, use "donata" instead of "dare" to show respect. Use どなた instead of だれ in formal conversations, interviews, or when speaking to elders to show respect.
Use なに (nani) or なん (nan) to ask about things, objects, or abstract ideas. While they both mean “what,” the choice between them is based on phonetic flow and grammar rules.
Examples:
Japanese is a language of rhythm and flow. Use nan when the following word begins with a "d," "t," or "n" sound for smoother pronunciation:
Tip: If unsure, listen to native speakers and pay attention to natural patterns.
Learn how to express giving and receiving in Japanese with our quick guide on give and receive.
Use いつ (itsu) to ask about time-related questions. Use いつ (itsu) to ask when something will happen. It’s often used without particles, unless you're adding emphasis or extra information.
Examples:
If you want to be more specific, use:
Tip: “Itsu” usually stands alone, but you might occasionally hear it with particles like に (ni), depending on the structure.
Explore the difference between koto and no with our simple guide on their usage.
Use どこ (doko) to ask about location. For a more polite tone, use どちら (dochira).
Examples:
Tip: Use dochira in formal situations, such as speaking to customers or strangers.
There are three common ways to ask “why” in Japanese, each with a slightly different tone.
Use なぜ (naze), どうして (doushite), or なんで (nande) to ask about reasons or explanations.
Examples:
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| Word | Formality | Usage |
| なぜ (naze) | Formal | Used in writing, academic speech |
| どうして (doushite) | Neutral | Used in daily conversations |
| なんで (nande) | Casual | Used informally among friends |
Tip: Nande sounds casual and can come across as emotional or confrontational. Use doushite if you’re unsure.
Unlike English, Japanese questions rarely change the word order. The verb usually stays at the end, and subjects are often dropped when they’re obvious from context.
This reflects how Japanese relies heavily on context rather than sentence structure to convey meaning. For example, while English might say "Where are you going?" with inversion, Japanese simply says "どこに行く？" (Doko ni iku?) without flipping the order.
Japanese often omits the question mark. The structure of the sentence indicates a question, especially in polite or spoken forms.
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Learning the question words is just the beginning. It's easy to run into small mistakes that can make your Japanese sound awkward or too casual.
❌ Using “nande” in a job interview or formal situation. This can sound blunt or even rude. Use “naze” or “doushite” instead.
❌ Confusing “nani ga” and “nani o”. “Nani ga” marks the subject of a sentence, while “nani o” marks the object. Mixing them up can change the meaning entirely.
❌ Asking “Dare wa?” by itself. It sounds abrupt and unnatural. It's better to ask “Dare desu ka?” for clarity and politeness.
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What’s the difference between “nani” and “nan”?
Use nani before verbs, and nan before “desu” or words starting with certain consonants.
How do I ask questions politely?
Use “ですか” endings and choose polite forms like どなた (for "who") and どちら (for "where").
Is “nande” okay to use in formal settings?
No. It’s very casual. Use naze or doushite instead in professional or formal conversations.
How can I get better at asking questions?
Listen to native conversations, repeat what you hear, use flashcards, and try using questions in real dialogues.
What does “Nandayo” mean?
It's a casual, emotional way of saying “What?” Often used to express frustration or surprise.
What does “Chotto matte” mean?
It means “Wait a moment.” Common and useful in everyday situations.
Understanding Japanese question words is the first step. Using them correctly, naturally, and respectfully takes your communication to the next level. By practicing with intention and listening closely to how native speakers ask and answer, you’ll grow more confident and fluent over time.
Bonus Point: Choose one question word like “いつ” (itsu) and come up with three questions you might use in real life. For example, "When is your birthday?" or "When do you go to school?" Say them out loud and, if possible, practice with a friend, tutor, or even a language exchange partner.
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