🇨🇳 How to say

“why” in Chinese

为什么wèishénme
Illustration of "why" in a Chinese cultural setting
A young tourist stands on a crowded city sidewalk, looking up at a skyscraper with a puzzled expression. She turns to her friend and points at the building, clearly asking a question about its unusual architecture.

Usage note

为什么 is the most common way to ask 'why' in Mandarin. It's neutral and can be used in both formal and casual situations, similar to how English speakers use 'why' for everything from simple curiosity to serious inquiries.

Examples

  • 你为什么喜欢这个城市？

    Why do you like this city?

  • 地铁为什么停了？

    Why did the subway stop?

  • 为什么这里这么多人？

    Why are there so many people here?

Quick check

What does "为什么" mean?

  • A. why
  • B. how
  • C. where
  • D. who

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