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Question Words: Who, What, Where, When, Why

Learn basic Japanese question words and their usage — note the difference before は/が. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn basic Japanese question words and their usage — note the difference before は/が.
  • Form and connection: 疑問詞ぎもんし：なに・だれ・どこ・いつ・どうして
  • Nuance in real use: Japanese question words aren't just for gathering facts — they carry attitude. なぜ is formal, どうして is everyday and more emotional.

Form and connection

疑問詞ぎもんし：なに・だれ・どこ・いつ・どうして

Core Explanation

Learn basic Japanese question words and their usage — note the difference before は/が.

Cultural Note

Japanese question words aren't just for gathering facts — they carry attitude. なぜ is formal, どうして is everyday and more emotional.

Practical examples

What is this?
Where is the station?
When will you go to Japan?

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer疑問詞ぎもんし：なに・だれ・どこ・いつ・どうして
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerWhat is this?
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answerいつ日本にほんへ行いきますか。 (疑問詞ぎもんし：なに・だれ・どこ・いつ・どうして)

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