问

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 我有问题想问你。▶ —
   I have a question to ask you.
2. 老师,我可以问吗?▶ —
   Teacher, may I ask?

Collocations

Mnemonic

问 wèn "to ask" — simplified from 問. Pictograph: a mouth 口 at a gate 门 — calling out to ask. 请问 "may I ask / excuse me" is a polite opener.

Quick check

1. Use of 请问?

   • "excuse me, may I ask" (polite opener)
   • to answer
   • to command
   • to shout