The phrase "what is" is generally used to ask for the definition, explanation, or nature of something. It is an introductory phrase leading to a question about the identity, meaning, or characteristics of a subject. For example:

• "What is love?" asks for the definition or understanding of love.
• "What is risk management?" asks for an explanation of risk management.

The phrase is the start of many questions seeking knowledge or clarification about a concept, object, term, or phenomenon.