From Nande to Doushite—How to Ask “Why” in Japanese

Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on social harmony and indirect communication. That’s why asking “why” might not always be as direct or frequent as in some other cultures. Still, there are plenty of natural and respectful ways for children to express curiosity in Japanese.

Most Common Ways to Say “Why” in Japanese

1. Naze (なぜ)

This is a more formal and thoughtful way to ask “why.” It’s often used in written language or more serious conversations. Kids might hear this in stories, textbooks, or documentaries.

2. Nande (なんで)

A casual and commonly used word among children and friends. If a child is puzzled or wants to ask something like, “Why are we going now?” they might say “Nande?”

3. Doushite (どうして)

This is another polite and versatile option that can be used in both casual and semi-formal situations. It can express genuine curiosity or concern, such as “どうして泣いてるの？” (Why are you crying?).

A Regional Flavor: Kansai-ben

In the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe), children might hear or use the lively expression “Nande yane! (なんでやね！)” — a playful and surprised way of saying “Why?!” that’s common in jokes and comedy shows. It’s a fun way for kids to explore regional dialects while practicing spoken Japanese.

How Dinolingo Makes It Fun

Dinolingo’s Japanese program gives children an engaging way to learn not just standard Japanese but also regional and emotional expressions. With stories, audio lessons, games, and native pronunciation practice, kids ages 2–14 learn in context — building both understanding and cultural awareness. Whether on the web, iOS, or Android, Dinolingo’s bite-sized lessons make learning easy to fit into daily routines.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to ask “why” in Japanese helps children express themselves respectfully and thoughtfully. By learning words like “nande,” “doushite,” and even “nande yane!” kids don’t just learn vocabulary they step into the rhythm and warmth of real Japanese conversation.