In 15 Seconds
- The basic way to ask 'What is this?' in Chinese.
- Use it for objects, food, and mystery items.
- Keep it friendly to avoid sounding rude or demanding.
Meaning
This is your go-to question for identifying mystery objects. It is the simplest way to ask 'What is this?' when pointing at something new.
Key Examples
3 of 7At a street food stall
这是什么？好香啊！
What is this? It smells so good!
Opening a mysterious gift
这是什么？谢谢你！
What is this? Thank you!
In a formal business meeting looking at a sample
请问，这是什么材料？
May I ask, what material is this?
Cultural Background
In Northern China, '啥' (shá) is very common in casual speech. People might use '这个是什么' more frequently.
Tone matters
Ensure the 'me' in 'shenme' is neutral tone.
In 15 Seconds
- The basic way to ask 'What is this?' in Chinese.
- Use it for objects, food, and mystery items.
- Keep it friendly to avoid sounding rude or demanding.
What It Means
这是什么 is the ultimate survival phrase in Chinese. It is direct and functional. You use it to identify objects you don't recognize. It is the verbal equivalent of pointing your finger. It helps you learn new vocabulary on the fly.
How To Use It
You can use it exactly like the English version. Just point at an item and say the phrase. You do not need to change the word order. In Chinese, the question word 什么 stays at the end. It feels very natural and easy to remember. Use a rising tone at the end for clarity.
When To Use It
Use it at a street food stall for mystery snacks. Use it when a friend gives you a gift. It is perfect for shopping at a local market. Use it when you see a strange gadget in a shop. It is great for sparking a conversation with locals. They usually love explaining their culture to you.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using it to refer to people. That would be very rude and dehumanizing. For people, you should ask 这是谁? instead. Do not use it if you sound annoyed. It might come off as 'What on earth is this garbage?' Tone matters a lot here. Keep your voice light and curious.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture is deeply rooted in food and objects. Asking 这是什么 is seen as a sign of interest. It shows you are curious about the local lifestyle. In markets, it is the start of every transaction. It bridges the gap between a stranger and a guest. It is the first phrase many children learn.
Common Variations
You can shorten it to 这是? in very casual settings. You can add 请问 at the start to be polite. Adding 这个 makes it 'What is this specific one?' If the object is far away, use 那是什么. These small tweaks help you sound more like a native. Don't worry about being perfect yet.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral and safe for almost any situation. Just remember to use a polite tone with elders or in professional settings.
Tone matters
Ensure the 'me' in 'shenme' is neutral tone.
Examples
7这是什么？好香啊！
What is this? It smells so good!
Adding a compliment makes the vendor more likely to give you a sample.
这是什么？谢谢你！
What is this? Thank you!
A polite way to show excitement about a present.
请问，这是什么材料？
May I ask, what material is this?
Adding 'please ask' makes it professional.
这是什么？太可怕了！
What is this? It's so scary!
Commonly used in digital chats when sharing photos.
妈妈，这是什么？
Mom, what is this?
The most basic way children learn language.
这是什么费用？
What is this fee?
Useful for clarifying charges or prices.
天呐，这是什么？
Oh my god, what is this?
Used for humorous or slightly disgusted reactions.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct way to ask 'What is this?'
___ 什么?
'这是' means 'this is', which fits the structure.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises___ 什么?
'这是' means 'this is', which fits the structure.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, use '谁' (shéi).
Related Phrases
那是什么
similarWhat is that?
