なにそれ
なにそれ
expression
what's that?, what do you mean?
1.
what's that?, what is it?
A casual expression of curiosity when encountering something unfamiliar or unexpected.
なにそれ、見せて！
What's that? Show me!
なにそれ、初めて聞いた。
What's that? I've never heard of it.
なにそれ、美味しそう。どこで買ったの？
What's that? It looks delicious. Where did you buy it?
2.
what do you mean?, that's weird
An expression of disbelief, confusion, or mild annoyance in response to something strange or unreasonable.
なにそれ、意味わかんない。
What do you mean? I don't get it.
急に予定変更？なにそれ。
A sudden schedule change? What's that about.
「明日のパーティーは中止だって。」「なにそれ、楽しみにしてたのに。」
"They say tomorrow's party is cancelled." "What? I was looking forward to it."
USAGE:
なにそれ is a very casual expression used among friends and family. The tone of voice determines the meaning: curious and upbeat for sense 1, flat or exasperated for sense 2.
RELATED:
- なにこれ: "what's this?" (pointing at something close by)
- なにそれ: "what's that?" (referring to something the other person has or said)