Meaning
Asking for an explanation of a situation or problem.
Cultural Background
Very common in daily life to show care. Used similarly, often with a softer tone. Often mixed with Cantonese, but understood. Used in Mandarin-speaking communities.
Tone matters
A soft tone makes it sound caring. A sharp tone makes it sound like an accusation.
Don't over-ask
If they say '没事' (it's nothing), don't push it.
Meaning
Asking for an explanation of a situation or problem.
Tone matters
A soft tone makes it sound caring. A sharp tone makes it sound like an accusation.
Don't over-ask
If they say '没事' (it's nothing), don't push it.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
你看起来很难过，__________？
You are asking about someone's emotional state.
Which is the correct way to ask what happened?
Choose the best option.
怎么了 is for events/states.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercises你看起来很难过，__________？
You are asking about someone's emotional state.
Choose the best option.
怎么了 is for events/states.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, but be polite. '发生什么事了？' might be better.
No, it's very common and helpful.
Related Phrases
怎么回事
similarWhat is going on?
出什么事了
similarWhat happened?
怎么做
contrastHow to do?
没事吧
builds onAre you okay?
