“Nani” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on September 11, 2024 by Isabella Claire

If you have crossed paths with the term “nani” and are wondering about it, then you have reached your final destination. This page will tell you everything you wanted to know about the phrase including its meaning and information regarding its origin.

Nani Meaning

  • “Nani” is a Japanese word that means “what,” used to ask questions or express surprise.
Nani Meaning
Nani Meaning – Created by 7ESL

What Does Nani Mean?

“Nani” (何) is a Japanese word that means “what.” It is used to ask questions or express surprise or confusion.

In casual or informal conversation, “nani” can also be used on its own to mean “What?” or “Huh?” as an expression of surprise or disbelief.

In pop culture, particularly in anime and manga, “nani” is often associated with dramatic reactions and is widely recognized by fans as an expression used by characters in various situations.

Origin of this Term

The Japanese word “nani” has always been translated to mean “what.” However, it became popular in western culture with those who are considered weebs when an anime titled Fist of the North Star premiered. This occurred in the year 1983. In the anime, the main character Kenshiro would say the phrase “omae wa mou shindeiru,” which translates in English to “you are already dead.”

When he would say this to a character in the anime series, the character would reply with “nani” as if they had not heard him quite clearly and then he would dispatch them. The phrase grew in popularity from this point and is still used by fans of anime today in memes and other online media.

Other Meanings

The term “nani” is Hawaiian means beautiful. It is a popular Hawaiian name for girls. The term “nani” also translates to the word “grandmother” in Hindu. “Nani” is also said to be a shortened term of the slang word poonani, which means vagina. Finally, the term “nani” is said to be an Inuit word used by Eskimos in Canada and translates to the word “where” in English.

Related Terms to Nani

  • Nan (なん / 何) – A shortened form of “nani,” often used in compound words or before certain particles.
  • Nandesu ka (なんですか / 何ですか) – A polite way of asking “What is it?” or “What do you mean?”
  • Nanimo (なにも / 何も) – Means “nothing” when used with a negative verb.
  • Nanika (なにか / 何か) – Means “something.” Used to ask or talk about an indefinite thing.
  • Nanto (なんと / 何と) – An exclamation meaning “What!” or “How!” used to express surprise or astonishment.
  • Nanda (なんだ / 何だ) – An informal way of saying “What is it?” or “What’s going on?” Often used to express surprise or curiosity.

These terms all derive from “nani” or are conceptually related, used in various contexts to ask questions, express curiosity, or convey surprise in Japanese.

Alternatives to “Nani”

There are very few alternative words or phrases that you can use in place of the term “nani.” Some of the alternatives you could use include:

  • what?
  • run that by me again?
  • say that again?

Nani Examples

A text discussion between two friends who are both huge fans of anime.

An online discussion by users on an anime forum.

  • User 1: Does your milkshake bring all the boys to the yard?
  • User 2: Nani?
  • User 1: Lol! Do you have nice boobs?
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