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How to Say ‘What’ in French

Qu'est-ce qui

k ɛ -s ki

[k ɛ -s ki]

💬 Usage Tip: Builds curiosity when asking questions.

Phrase Breakdown

Qu'

[k]

What

Used to ask for information about something.

Example

Qu'est-ce qui se passe ?

What is happening?

est-ce

ɛ -s

[eh]

is it

Part of a phrase that forms a question.

Example

Est-ce possible?

Is it possible?

Words in this phrase

est

[ɛ]

is

3rd person singular present of 'to be'.

Example

C'est une belle journée.

It is a beautiful day.

-ce

[-s]

this

Used to specify a specific thing or situation.

Example

Qu'est-ce que c'est ?

What is this?

qui

[ki]

that

Used to identify or specify a person or thing previously mentioned.

Example

Qui est là ?

Who is there?

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