何 (What) - Special Uses

Various depending on context

Explanation

何 has different pronunciations and uses depending on context.

Formation

なん before desu, counters; なに before particles

Examples

何ですか。
Nan desu ka.
何を食べますか。
Nani o tabemasu ka.
What will you eat?
See in analyzer →
何時ですか。
Nan-ji desu ka.
What time is it?
See in analyzer →
何人ですか。
Nan-nin desu ka.
How many people?
See in analyzer →

Usage Notes

  • なん before desu, counters
  • なに before particles
  • 何か (something), 何も (nothing)
  • 何で can mean "why" or "by what means"

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • なに/なん choice depends on following sound
  • 何で (why) vs 何で (by what) - context matters
  • 何も requires negative verb