Meaning
Used to redirect a question or topic to the other person.
Cultural Background
Americans use this constantly in small talk to build rapport quickly. It is seen as friendly and open. In the UK, this is used to avoid awkward silences. It is a polite way to keep the conversation moving without being too intrusive. While used, it is often softened with more indirect language to avoid putting the other person on the spot.
Use your hands
When you say 'What about you?', gesture toward the other person to make it feel more natural.
Rising intonation
Use a rising intonation at the end to make it sound like a friendly question rather than a demand.
Meaning
Used to redirect a question or topic to the other person.
Use your hands
When you say 'What about you?', gesture toward the other person to make it feel more natural.
Rising intonation
Use a rising intonation at the end to make it sound like a friendly question rather than a demand.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence to ask the other person about their day.
I had a great day. _________?
The phrase 'What about you?' is the correct way to ask for the other person's status.
Which is the correct way to ask someone for their opinion?
Choose the best option.
This is the fixed idiomatic word order.
Complete the dialogue.
A: I love sushi. B: _________?
B is asking A for their opinion on sushi.
When should you use 'What about you?'
Select the correct scenario.
It is a tool for conversational reciprocity.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI had a great day. _________?
The phrase 'What about you?' is the correct way to ask for the other person's status.
Choose the best option.
This is the fixed idiomatic word order.
A: I love sushi. B: _________?
B is asking A for their opinion on sushi.
Select the correct scenario.
It is a tool for conversational reciprocity.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is very polite and expected in English conversation.
Yes, it is fine in casual emails to friends or colleagues.
Yes, they are interchangeable in almost all contexts.
They might have missed it; try asking a more specific question.
Yes, it is neutral and professional enough for most workplaces.
It's a common pronoun confusion; just remember 'you' is for the other person.
Related Phrases
How about you?
synonymSame as 'What about you?'
And you?
similarA shorter version.
What do you think?
builds onAsking for an opinion.
