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what is it vs What is going on

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'What is it' is used to ask about a specific thing or situation, while 'What is going on' is used to inquire about a situation or event that is currently happening.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 795 views

what is it

This phrase is correct and commonly used to ask about a specific thing or situation.

This phrase is used to inquire about the identity or nature of something specific.

Examples:

  • I heard a noise. What is it?
  • She received a package. What is it?
  • He has a surprise for you. What is it?
  • The teacher left a note on your desk. What is it?
  • There is something strange in the garden. What is it?
  • Counsellor Troi, what is it?
  • Miss Boddicker, what is it now?
  • Jaysus, what is it now?
  • Nurse Miller, what is it?
  • Lady Mansfield, what is it?
  • MIEE, what is it there?
  • Dr. Montgomery, what is it?
  • The mural behind me - what is it?
  • Then what is it, love?
  • < Toschina, what is it? < Nothing.
  • But what is it? Define it.
  • The Information, what is it?
  • But what is it, really?
  • And what is it? - Daughter officer.
  • Incredible. And what is it doing now?
  • Christina, what is it worth now?
  • Exactly what is it you do here?
  • Tell me, what is it that makes one so...
  • And what is it that has kept our empire together?
  • Something troubles you, what is it?

Alternatives:

  • What is that
  • What is this
  • What is the matter
  • What is the problem
  • What is the issue

What is going on

This phrase is correct and commonly used to inquire about a situation or event that is currently happening.

This phrase is used to ask for information about a situation or event that is occurring at the moment.

Examples:

  • There is a lot of noise outside. What is going on?
  • Why are there so many people in the street? What is going on?
  • The boss called a meeting. What is going on?
  • I heard sirens. What is going on?
  • Everyone seems worried. What is going on?
  • What is going on in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine? By BEN CASPIT/MAARIV. Published: MARCH 8, 2022 16:44. Updated: MARCH 9, 2022 05:11.

Alternatives:

  • What is happening
  • What is going on here
  • What is going on there
  • What is going on with you
  • What is going on with them

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