English–Japanese
“what on earth” in Japanese
Japanese
Pronunciation
Romajiittai
Example
一体どうしたのですか。it tai dō shi ta no de su ka
What on earth happened?
How to say “what on earth” in Japanese
“What on earth” in Japanese is 一体 (ittai).
Pushes a question beyond simple curiosity by showing surprise, confusion, or strong interest.
Example sentences with 一体
一体なぜそんなことを言ったのですか。it tai na ze so n na ko to o i tta no de su ka
Why on earth did you say that?
Tips for using 一体
- In casual conversation, 一体 (ittai) can come before question words such as 何 (nani) and 誰 (dare), while leaving it out makes the question more neutral.