24 Japanese Phrases to Say “What Does This Mean?
Ever found yourself staring at a Japanese phrase and wondering, “What on earth does this mean?”
You’re not alone! Japanese can be tricky with its mix of kanji, hiragana, and katakana. But don’t worry, learning how to ask for clarification can make your journey so much smoother.
Whether you’re chatting with friends, watching anime, or reading manga, knowing different ways to say “What does this mean?” comes in super handy.
It’s not just about words — it’s about connecting, understanding culture, and feeling confident in your language skills. Plus, mixing up your questions keeps conversations fresh and fun!
Learning these phrases can improve your listening and speaking skills, too, opening up more opportunities to explore Japanese in real life.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore 24 Japanese phrases that all mean “What does this mean?” in different shades, from casual to formal and even native-like expressions.
Getting Started: Why Variety Matters
Asking “What does this mean?” isn’t just a simple question—it’s a tool for learning and connection.
Different situations call for different expressions. You might want to sound polite in a formal setting or casual among friends.
Mixing up your phrases also helps you remember them better and makes conversations more natural.
Sometimes, having a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.
It’s easier to learn when you see how phrases change with context.
So, let’s get you equipped with a solid variety of ways to ask “What does this mean?” in Japanese!
Part 1: Casual Suggestions
1. これは何？ (Kore wa nani?) – koh-reh wah nah-nee
The simplest and most direct way to ask “What is this?” in a casual tone.
“これ” (kore) means “this,” “は” (wa) is a topic marker, and “何” (nani) means “what.” It’s perfect for quick, informal situations.
Great to use with friends or classmates when you want a straightforward answer.
It’s short and sweet, so easy to remember and use spontaneously.
You might hear or use a similar phrase like それは何？ (Sore wa nani?) meaning “What is that?” for something a bit farther away.
Once comfortable, you’ll find yourself naturally pointing and asking without hesitation!
2. どういう意味？ (Dou iu imi?) – doh yoo ee-mee
This phrase asks “What kind of meaning?” or “What does it mean?” in a casual yet clear way.
“どういう” (dou iu) means “what kind of,” and “意味” (imi) means “meaning.” It’s very common and easy to use daily.
Perfect for when you want a bit more explanation beyond just “what is this.”
Be careful not to use it too abruptly with strangers to avoid sounding blunt.
For example, you could say: その言葉はどういう意味？ (Sono kotoba wa dou iu imi?) – “What does that word mean?”
This phrase opens up conversation nicely and invites explanation.
3. これ、どういうこと？ (Kore, dou iu koto?) – koh-reh doh yoo koh-toh
Another casual option meaning “What does this mean?” but more literally “What kind of thing is this?”
“こと” (koto) means “thing” or “matter,” so this phrase asks for the meaning behind a situation or statement.
It’s great for asking about unclear explanations or confusing contexts.
Easy to remember because “こと” is a common word you’ll see everywhere.
Similar phrases include それはどういうこと？ (Sore wa dou iu koto?) for “What does that mean?”
Use it to sound natural when puzzled by stories or events.
4. どういう意味なの？ (Dou iu imi nano?) – doh yoo ee-mee nah-noh
A casual, slightly softer way of asking “What does it mean?” with “なの” (nano) adding a gentle tone.
It’s like saying “What does this mean exactly?” and feels friendly and curious.
This phrase is useful when you want to sound polite but still casual.
Watch out not to overuse “なの” as it’s more conversational and not for very formal settings.
Perfect for chatting with peers or teachers in relaxed environments.
Pair it with “これ” or “それ” to specify what you’re asking about.
5. これって何？ (Kore tte nani?) – koh-reh tte nah-nee
“って” (tte) is a casual topic marker often used in spoken Japanese, making this phrase super conversational.
It’s equivalent to “So, this is what?” or “This… what?” and is very natural sounding among friends.
Great to use when you’re genuinely curious but want to keep it light.
Since “って” is informal, avoid it in formal situations.
Example: これってどういう意味？ (Kore tte dou iu imi?) – “What does this mean?”
Using “って” often makes your Japanese sound more relaxed and native-like.
6. これ、何の意味？ (Kore, nan no imi?) – koh-reh nahn noh ee-mee
This phrase literally means “What kind of meaning does this have?” and is casual enough for everyday use.
“何の” (nan no) means “what kind of” or “of what,” so it helps specify you’re asking about the meaning of something.
It’s easy to remember as “nan” means “what” and “imi” means “meaning.”
Try not to use this in very formal talks as it sounds a bit direct.
Useful when you want to ask about signs, instructions, or unfamiliar words.
It’s a handy phrase for travelers or language learners on the go.
7. 意味わかる？ (Imi wakaru?) – ee-mee wah-kah-roo
Literally “Do you understand the meaning?” this phrase is casual and often used among friends.
“意味” (imi) means “meaning” and “わかる” (wakaru) means “to understand.”
It’s a quick way to check if someone gets what you’re saying or if they need clarification.
Because it’s direct, avoid it with strangers or in formal settings.
When you want to ask “What does this mean?” indirectly, you can pair it with a gesture to the object or phrase.
It’s a friendly phrase that encourages conversation flow.
8. これってどういう意味？ (Kore tte dou iu imi?) – koh-reh tte doh yoo ee-mee
This is a combination of casual elements for asking “What does this mean?” in a natural way.
Using “って” adds a conversational feel, and “どういう意味” specifically asks for the meaning.
Perfect for casual chats or when you want to sound natural but clear.
Easy to practice by pointing at objects or words you don’t understand.
Remember, the phrase is informal, so save it for friends or relaxed situations.
It’s a versatile phrase you’ll find handy throughout your learning journey.
Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions
9. これはどういう意味ですか？ (Kore wa dou iu imi desu ka?) – koh-reh wah doh yoo ee-mee dess kah
This is a polite way to ask “What does this mean?” using the formal ending “ですか” (desu ka).
It’s perfect for workplaces, classrooms, or when speaking with strangers.
Adding “ですか” softens the question and shows respect.
Don’t skip the “ですか” in formal situations; it’s essential for politeness.
Example: 先生、これはどういう意味ですか？ (Sensei, kore wa dou iu imi desu ka?) – “Teacher, what does this mean?”
Using this phrase helps you sound respectful and serious about learning.
10. 意味を教えていただけますか？ (Imi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?) – ee-mee oh oh-shee-eh-teh ee-tah-dah-keh-mahss kah
This is a very polite and humble way to say “Could you please tell me the meaning?”
“教えていただけますか” (oshiete itadakemasu ka) literally means “Could you kindly teach/tell me?”
It’s great for formal conversations or when asking someone senior.
Because of its formality, avoid using it with close friends or casual settings.
Example: すみません、この言葉の意味を教えていただけますか？ (Sumimasen, kono kotoba no imi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?)
Using this phrase shows great respect and eagerness to learn.
11. こちらの意味を教えていただけますか？ (Kochira no imi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?) – koh-chee-rah noh ee-mee oh oh-shee-eh-teh ee-tah-dah-keh-mahss kah
This phrase is a polite way to ask “Could you please tell me the meaning of this (thing here)?”
“こちら” (kochira) means “this way” or “this one,” often used politely instead of “これ.”
It’s commonly used when you want to sound very respectful and formal.
Good for customer service, formal emails, or official situations.
Try it when you want to impress with your politeness.
Learning this phrase can help you navigate professional conversations smoothly.
12. この表現の意味を教えていただけますか？ (Kono hyougen no imi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?) – koh-noh hyoh-gen noh ee-mee oh oh-shee-eh-teh ee-tah-dah-keh-mahss kah
This is a polite phrase asking for the meaning of a “表現” (hyougen), which means “expression” or “phrase.”
It’s perfect when you want to ask about idioms, sayings, or specific phrases formally.
Using specific words like “表現” shows you’re serious about learning nuances.
Make sure to pronounce “表現” carefully as it can be a tongue twister at first.
Example: この表現の意味を教えていただけますか？ (Kono hyougen no imi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?)
It’s a great phrase for language learners in advanced classes or study groups.
13. 失礼ですが、これはどういう意味でしょうか？ (Shitsurei desu ga, kore wa dou iu imi deshou ka?) – shee-tsu-reh-ee dess gah, koh-reh wah doh yoo ee-mee dessh-oh kah
A very polite and formal way to say “Excuse me, but what does this mean?”
“失礼ですが” (shitsurei desu ga) means “Excuse me, but…” which softens your question.
This phrase is excellent for formal meetings, presentations, or when speaking to superiors.
“でしょうか” (deshou ka) adds a polite tone, making it sound less direct.
Use it when you want to be extra courteous and professional.
Mastering this phrase shows your respect and understanding of formal Japanese etiquette.
14. こちらの意味をご説明いただけますか？ (Kochira no imi o go setsumei itadakemasu ka?) – koh-chee-rah noh ee-mee oh go seh-tsu-meh-ee ee-tah-dah-keh-mahss kah
This is a formal and respectful way to ask, “Could you please explain the meaning of this?”
“ご説明” (go setsumei) means “explanation,” adding a formal nuance to your request.
It’s perfect for business or educational contexts where you want to sound polite yet clear.
Don’t forget the honorific “ご” which shows respect.
Example: 申し訳ありませんが、こちらの意味をご説明いただけますか？ (Moushiwake arimasen ga, kochira no imi o go setsumei itadakemasu ka?)
Using this phrase will help you communicate effectively in formal Japanese situations.
15. こちらの意味をお教えいただけますか？ (Kochira no imi o o oshie itadakemasu ka?) – koh-chee-rah noh ee-mee oh oh-shee-eh ee-tah-dah-keh-mahss kah
This is similar to previous polite phrases but uses “お教え” (o oshie), another humble way to say “teach” or “tell.”
It’s formal and humble, great for academic or professional conversations.
Using “お” prefix adds politeness that is appreciated in Japanese culture.
Try this phrase when you want to make a good impression or show deference.
Example: 先生、こちらの意味をお教えいただけますか？ (Sensei, kochira no imi o o oshie itadakemasu ka?)
It’s a versatile phrase that fits many formal learning situations.
16. この言葉の意味をお聞かせ願えますか？ (Kono kotoba no imi o okikase negaemasu ka?) – koh-noh koh-toh-bah noh ee-mee oh oh-kee-kah-seh neh-gah-eh-mahss kah
This is a very polite and humble request meaning “Could you kindly tell me the meaning of this word?”
“お聞かせ願えますか” (okikase negaemasu ka) is a humble way to ask for information.
Perfect for formal letters, speeches, or when addressing elders.
It’s longer but very respectful, showing your earnestness.
Example: 申し訳ございませんが、この言葉の意味をお聞かせ願えますか？ (Moushiwake gozaimasen ga, kono kotoba no imi o okikase negaemasu ka?)
Using such phrases makes your Japanese impressively polite and humble.
Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions
17. これ、どういう意味なん？ (Kore, dou iu imi nan?) – koh-reh doh yoo ee-mee nahn
A very casual and native-like way to say “What does this mean?” commonly used in Kansai dialect.
“なん” (nan) replaces “なの” or “です” for a more relaxed tone.
It’s great for informal chats, especially in western Japan.
Perfect to sound friendly and local when hanging out with peers.
Beware it’s not appropriate in polite or formal contexts.
Try it when you want to blend in with native speakers casually.
18. これ、どういう意味や？ (Kore, dou iu imi ya?) – koh-reh doh yoo ee-mee yah
Another Kansai dialect expression meaning “What does this mean?” where “や” (ya) replaces “だ” or “です.”
It’s informal and friendly, often used in casual conversation.
Fun to use if you want to sound more native in certain regions.
Not suitable for formal situations but great among friends.
You’ll often hear it in dramas or local TV shows.
Experiment with it to add flavor to your spoken Japanese.
19. これ、なんて意味？ (Kore, nante imi?) – koh-reh nahn-teh ee-mee
Short and casual phrase meaning “What kind of meaning is this?”
“なんて” (nante) is a casual way to say “what” or “such as.”
It’s often used in speech or text messages for quick asking.
Easy to remember and sound natural in informal chats.
Be careful not to use it in formal writing or speech.
Great for social media or texting friends when you don’t understand something.
20. これ、意味わかんない (Kore, imi wakannai) – koh-reh ee-mee wah-kahn-nai
A very casual and colloquial way to say “I don’t understand the meaning of this.”
“わかんない” (wakannai) is a casual contraction of “わからない” (wakaranai), meaning “don’t understand.”
It’s commonly used among young people and friends.
It’s not a question but expresses confusion clearly.
Use it to show your honest reaction casually.
Perfect for informal conversations or venting frustration.
21. これって何？意味わかる？ (Kore tte nani? Imi wakaru?) – koh-reh tte nah-nee ee-mee wah-kah-roo
A casual combo of “What is this?” and “Do you understand the meaning?”
It’s great when you want to ask and check understanding at once.
“って” adds a conversational tone, making it friendly.
Good for everyday chats when sharing content or news.
Not for formal situations but perfect for peer conversations.
Using combos like this can make your Japanese more fluid and natural.
22. これ、どういうこと？意味わかる？ (Kore, dou iu koto? Imi wakaru?) – koh-reh doh yoo koh-toh ee-mee wah-kah-roo
This phrase combines “What does this mean?” with “Do you understand the meaning?”
It’s casual and perfect for informal group chats or friendly discussions.
“どういうこと” (dou iu koto) is a natural way to ask about meanings behind things.
Helps clarify confusion while encouraging others to share their understanding.
Try it out in conversations with classmates or language exchange partners.
It’s a great way to deepen your comprehension through discussion.
23. これって何て意味？ (Kore tte nante imi?) – koh-reh tte nahn-teh ee-mee
A quick, casual question meaning “What exactly does this mean?”
Combines “って” and “なんて” to sound conversational and natural.
Commonly used among students or young speakers.
It’s informal, so avoid in formal or polite contexts.
Great for casual study groups or chatting about new words.
Using this phrase helps you sound like a native speaker in friendly settings.
24. これ、どういう意味なんだ？ (Kore, dou iu imi nan da?) – koh-reh doh yoo ee-mee nahn dah
This is a casual and slightly emphatic way to say “What does this mean?”
“なんだ” (nan da) adds an explanatory or questioning nuance, common in spoken Japanese.
It’s great for informal conversations, especially with close friends.
Not polite enough for formal settings but perfect for casual speech.
Helps express your genuine curiosity or mild surprise.
Using “なんだ” gives your questions a natural, native-like tone.
Concluding Thought
Exploring different ways to say “What does this mean?” in Japanese opens up more than just language skills—it deepens your cultural connection.
From casual chats to formal inquiries, having a variety of phrases makes you adaptable and confident in any situation.
Keep practicing these expressions and watch how your understanding and conversations blossom. Ganbatte ne!