Meaning
Used to ask about an unknown object or thing.
Cultural Background
Directness is valued. It is common to ask 'What is this?' even to strangers if you are curious about something they are holding or selling. Pointing with a finger is often considered rude. It is better to gesture with an open hand while asking the equivalent question. Politeness markers like 'Excuse me' or 'Sorry' are often added before the question to avoid sounding too abrupt. Hospitality is key. If you ask 'What is this?' about food, the host will likely give you a large portion to try immediately.
Use your hands
This phrase is almost always used with a gesture. Pointing or holding the object makes your meaning clear.
Not for people!
Remember, never use 'What is this?' for a person. It's very rude.
Meaning
Used to ask about an unknown object or thing.
Use your hands
This phrase is almost always used with a gesture. Pointing or holding the object makes your meaning clear.
Not for people!
Remember, never use 'What is this?' for a person. It's very rude.
The 'What's' shortcut
Native speakers almost always say 'What's this?'. Practice the contraction to sound more natural.
Test Yourself
Complete the question to ask about the object in your hand.
What ___ this?
We use 'is' because 'this' is singular.
Which question is correct when pointing at a group of books?
You see three books on the table. You ask:
Books are plural, so we use 'are these'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You find a strange fruit at the market.
You are asking about an object's identity.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ______? B: This is my new laptop.
The answer 'This is...' confirms the question was 'What is this?'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWhat ___ this?
We use 'is' because 'this' is singular.
You see three books on the table. You ask:
Books are plural, so we use 'are these'.
You find a strange fruit at the market.
You are asking about an object's identity.
A: ______? B: This is my new laptop.
The answer 'This is...' confirms the question was 'What is this?'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, for animals, you can use 'What is this?' (to ask the breed) or 'Who is this?' (if you treat the pet like a person).
It is neutral to informal. In a very formal report, you would write 'What is this?'.
Usually, you can start with 'What is this?'. If it turns out to be many things, the other person will correct you.
'What is it?' is used when the object is already the topic of conversation. 'What is this?' is for introducing the object.
Yes! You can say 'What is this smell?' or just 'What is this?' while sniffing.
It is always 'What is this?' in a question. 'What this is' is used in statements like 'I know what this is.'
Not directly. You should say 'How much is this?'. 'What is this?' only asks for the name/identity.
This is a common idiom meaning 'I don't believe you' or 'This is ridiculous.'
Answer with 'This is a [noun]' or 'It's a [noun]'.
Yes, 'this' is perfect for things you are pointing at on a computer or phone screen.
Related Phrases
What is that?
similarAsking about a distant object.
What are these?
similarAsking about multiple objects.
What's going on?
builds onAsking about a situation.
Who is this?
contrastAsking about a person.
