what is it
The phrase "what is it" is commonly used to seek information or clarification about something unknown or unclear.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
A2General Inquiry
(general)A question used to ask for the identification or explanation of something.
Example
- She pointed at the object and asked, 'What is it?'
B1Seeking Clarification
(general)A question asked to gain more information about a specific object, situation, or concept.
Example
- He looked confused and asked, 'What is it that you need?'
B1Expression of Concern
(general)A phrase used to prompt someone to explain or describe something that is not immediately understood.
Example
- Noticing her worried expression, he asked, 'What is it?'
B2Informal Greeting
(informal, slang)Used as a casual greeting, similar to 'what's up?' or 'how's it going?'
Example
- He saw his friend and greeted him with, 'Hey, what is it?'
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "what is it":