How to say "When?" in Chinese

什么时候 (shénme shíhou) is a question phrase combining 什么 (what) and 时候 (time/moment), literally meaning "what time". It is used to ask about when an event happens.

Use 什么时候 to ask about timing, such as "when are we leaving?" or "when is the meeting?". It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it with a rising tone if you are not asking a question, as it may sound like a statement.