How to Say "What does this mean?" in Chinese
The most natural way to say "What does this mean?" in Chinese is 这是什么意思？. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
Use this phrase when you encounter something unclear or confusing. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It's common in conversations, classrooms, or when reading something unfamiliar.
Say it out loud, get corrected
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Examples in Chinese
| Chinese | English |
|---|---|
| 我不明白这是什么意思。 | I don't understand what this means. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear 这是什么意思？, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Chinese with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this phrase in a formal setting?
Yes, it is appropriate for both formal and informal situations.
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