How to say "What does this mean?" in Chinese

This is a question formed with 这 (zhè, this), 是 (shì, is), 什么 (shénme, what), and 意思 (yìsi, meaning). The structure is a straightforward subject-verb-object question.

Use this when you hear or see something you don't understand, whether a word, phrase, or gesture. It's neutral in register and works in most situations. Avoid using it for objects you can see; instead, point and ask "这是什么？" (What is this?).