What it means
質問+かい is a familiar sentence-ending question pattern. It asks for information or confirmation and usually follows a plain-form verb, noun, or adjective. The ending often sounds gentle, friendly, or masculine, and it is also common in speech by older speakers. It is not appropriate for formal situations; ですか or ますか is the normal polite equivalent.
Usage note
かい is mainly used in familiar spoken Japanese and can sound marked if used by a speaker or in a situation where a plain question would be unexpected. Do not use it in formal writing, business conversations, or respectful questions to someone of higher status.
How to use it
あなたは医者ですか。
Are you a doctor?
この町は静かですか。
Is this town quiet?
今日は寒いですか。
Is it cold today?
来週、京都へ行きますか。
Will you go to Kyoto next week?
あなたは医者かい。
Are you a doctor?
この町は静かかい。
Is this town quiet?
今日は寒いかい。
Is it cold today?
来週、京都へ行くかい。
Will you go to Kyoto next week?
