Here is a clear and simple explanation of the differences between:

• 이건 뭐예요?
• 이거 뭐예요?
• 이건 뭔가요?

All three mean “What is this?”, but they differ in grammar, nuance, and politeness level.

1. 이건 뭐예요?

Structure:

이건 = 이것은 (this + topic marker “은/는”)
뭐예요 = what is it?

Meaning:

→ “As for this, what is it?”
(You are emphasizing this item specifically.)

Usage:

• Most common in daily conversation
• Natural when you’re pointing at something
• Slightly more emphasis on the item

⭐ Example

📌 (Pointing at an object)
이건 뭐예요? – What is this thing?

2. 이거 뭐예요?

Structure:

이거 = this (no particle)
뭐예요 = what is it?

Meaning:

→ Simply “What is this?”

Usage:

• Very common and simple
• Feels slightly more casual than “이건 뭐예요?”
• No topic marker → feels lighter and more direct

⭐ Example

📌 (Looking at something in your hand)
이거 뭐예요? – What is this?

3. 이건 뭔가요?

Structure:

이건 = 이것은
뭔가요 = 뭐인가요 (slightly more formal/polite)

Meaning:

→ “What might this be?” / “What is this (more politely)?”

Usage:

• More polite, sometimes slightly softer
• Sounds a little more formal, respectful, or careful
• Common in customer service, talking to elders, or polite settings

⭐ Examples

• Asking a museum guide politely
  이건 뭔가요? – What is this (sir/ma’am)?
• Asking politely in a shop or office

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Quick Comparison Table

Sentence	Literal meaning	Feeling / Usage
이건 뭐예요?	As for this, what is it?	Common, natural, small emphasis on this item
이거 뭐예요?	This—what is it?	Very common, light, casual-polite
이건 뭔가요?	What might this be?	More polite/formal, softer tone

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Which one should YOU use?

If you want to sound normal and natural →
👉 이거 뭐예요?

If you want to show slightly more emphasis or clarity →
👉 이건 뭐예요?

If you want to be extra polite or in a formal situation →
👉 이건 뭔가요?