🇨🇳 How to say

“what” in Chinese

什么shénme
Illustration of "what" in a Chinese cultural setting
A tourist stands at a busy intersection, looking confused at street signs and asking passersby for directions in Mandarin. They gesture around at the unfamiliar buildings and shops.

Usage note

Use 什么 to ask 'what' about objects, names, or choices; it's neutral and used in both formal and casual situations, similar to how 'what' works in English.

Examples

  • 这是什么？

    What is this?

  • 你叫什么名字？

    What is your name?

  • 你想吃什么？

    What do you want to eat?

Quick check

What does "什么" mean?

  • A. what
  • B. where
  • C. how
  • D. how much money

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