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    Chinese Grammar

    Politely asking a question with 请问 (qǐngwèn)

    Manner & Method
    Questions

    Structure

    请问 + Question

    Explanation

    请问 means "may I ask" and is used to politely introduce a question. It combines 请 (please) with 问 (to ask), softening the directness of the inquiry. Place it at the beginning of a question to show courtesy.

    Examples

    • 请问，去火车站怎么走？

      Qǐngwèn, qù huǒchē zhàn zěnme zǒu?

      Excuse me, how do I get to the train station?

    • 请问，这个座位有人吗？

      Qǐngwèn, zhège zuòwèi yǒu rén ma?

      Excuse me, is this seat taken?

    • 请问，现在几点了？

      Qǐngwèn, xiànzài jǐ diǎn le?

      Excuse me, what time is it now?

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