Nandarō

Nandarō (なんだろう) is a Japanese phrase that translates most directly to "I wonder what it is," "What could it be?" or simply "What is it?" It expresses a sense of curiosity, confusion, or uncertainty about something.

The phrase is composed of two elements:

• Nan (何): Meaning "what."
• Darō (だろう): A suffix indicating conjecture or speculation. It is often used when the speaker is unsure or guessing. It's derived from the copula "da" (to be) and the volitional suffix "rou" (or "darou" in its polite form).

Therefore, "nandarō" expresses the feeling of thinking "What is it, I wonder?" or a similar expression of mild bewilderment or curiosity. The nuance can vary depending on the context and intonation. It can express simple curiosity, mild confusion, or even a slightly rhetorical sense of wonder.