何歳(なんさい)

Politeness note

Asking someone's age directly can be considered impolite in many situations in Japan, especially with adults. It's common to avoid asking or to phrase it more indirectly.

Alternative expressions

• おいくつですか (polite: How old are you?)
• 何歳(なんさい)になりましたか (How old have you turned?)

Common patterns

• 何歳(なんさい)まで (until what age)
• 何歳(なんさい)から (from what age)
• 何歳(なんさい)ぐらい (about how old)