Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word
何となく. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
何となく, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
何となく in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
何となく you have here. The definition of the word
何となく will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
何となく, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
Japanese
| Alternative spelling
|
| 何と無く
|
Etymology
Compound of 何 (nan, “what”, combining form of nani) + と (to, adverbial particle) + なく (naku, adverbial form of ない nai, “not; without”).[1]
何と (nan to) is used to mean "somehow, somewhat, kinda":
- この間は何と寒いね。
- Kono aida wa nan to samui ne.
- It's been kinda cold this while, hasn't it.
The addition of the なく (naku) on the end serves to emphasize the vagueness: somehow or other, kinda sorta.
Pronunciation
Adverb
何となく • (nantonaku)
- somehow or other, for some reason or another
- somewhat, to some degree
References