Minna Grammar #3: Asking Questions in Japanese Using "N1はN2ですか"

Image of a person looking up, representing the concept of asking questions like ‘N1はN2ですか'. — **Photo by Tachina Lee on Unsplash**

Table of contents

Introduction
What It Means
When You Use It
Examples
Note
Conclusion

Introduction

When learning Japanese, it’s essential to know how to ask questions. The particle “か” is used to turn statements into questions, whether you’re confirming facts or asking about specific information.

What It Means

“か” is a particle added to the end of a sentence to show uncertainty or ask a question. Adding “か” to a statement and using a rising intonation turns it into a question.

When You Use It

There are two main types of questions where “か” is used:

Yes/No Questions:
These questions ask if a statement is correct or not. Simply add “か” to the end of the sentence without changing the word order. If the statement is correct, answer with “はい” (yes). If not, respond with “いいえ” (no).
Questions with Interrogatives:
These questions involve interrogative words like “who,” “what,” or “where.” Replace the part of the sentence you want to ask about with an interrogative, and add “か” at the end without changing the word order.

Examples

Yes/No Questions:
- マイケルさんはアメリカ人ですか。 (Maikeru-san wa Amerika-jin desu ka.)
  Is Michel an American?
  - はい、アメリカ人です。(Hai, Amerika-jin desu.)
    Yes, he is.
- マイケルさんは先生ですか。 (Maikeru-san wa sensei desu ka.)
  Is Michel a teacher?
  - いいえ、先生じゃありません。(Iie, sensei ja arimasen.)
    No, he isn’t.
Questions with Interrogatives:
- あの方はどなたですか。(Ano kata wa donata desu ka.)
  Who’s that person?
- (あの方は) マイケルさんです。(Ano kata wa Maikeru-san desu.)
  That’s Michel.

Note

あの方 (ano kata) vs. あの人 (ano hito):
Both terms mean “that person,” but あの方 is more formal and respectful, often used in polite conversations or for those in a higher position. あの人 is informal and commonly used in everyday, casual speech.
どなた (donata) vs. だれ (dare):
Both words mean “who,” but どなた is more formal and polite, often used in formal situations or to show respect. だれ is informal and used in casual conversations.

Using “あの方/どなた” instead of “あの人/だれ” can help you sound more respectful, especially when talking to or about someone in a higher position or someone you don’t know well.

Conclusion

Using “か” to form questions is straightforward once you understand the basics. Just add “か” to your sentences and use the right intonation to ask yes/no questions or use an interrogative to find out more information.