Chinese phrase
这是什么〜？ zhè shì shén me 〜
Meaning
What is this ___?
When to use it
Asks what an object or thing is. It is a simple, neutral question used when the object is unfamiliar or unclear.
Example dialogue
这是什么东西？ zhè shì shén me dōng xī
What is this thing?
是你丢的雨伞。 shì nǐ diū de yú sǎn
It's the umbrella you dropped.