1.
such and such; so-and-so
A placeholder for unspecified items or details when listing or explaining.
何々を持ってきてくださいと言われた。
I was told to bring such and such things.
Placeholder usage
何々と何々が要ると言っていた。
They said they need such and such and such and such.
書類に「何々様」と書いてあった。
On the document it said 'Mr./Ms. So-and-so'.
先生が「教科書の何々ページを開いてください」と言った。
The teacher said, 'Please open to such-and-such page in the textbook.'
手続きに必要なものは何々ですか。
What items are needed for the procedure?
Placeholder for an unknown list of items
2.
what?; what is it?
Used when asking someone to repeat or clarify what they said, or expressing curiosity.
「面白い話があるんだ」「何々？」
'I have an interesting story.' 'What? What is it?'
Expressing curiosity
何々、大丈夫だよ。
What? It's fine, don't worry.
Dismissive/reassuring
「何々？聞こえなかった。」
'What? I couldn't hear.'
「何々、そんなことがあったの？」と身を乗り出した。
'What, that happened?' she said, leaning forward with curiosity.
「いいこと教えてあげる。」「何々？早く教えて！」
'I'll tell you something good.' 'What? What? Tell me quickly!'
USAGE:
1. As a placeholder: Substitutes for unspecified items in examples or when you can't recall specifics
2. As an interjection: Expresses curiosity or asks for clarification
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 何 (what - single item)
- 誰々 (such and such person)
- 何とか (something or other)
TONE: Casual. The interjection usage can sound eager/curious or slightly dismissive depending on context.
Related Words
Related:
何 (what)