et toi ?
In French, "what about you?" is translated as et toi ?
This phrase is used to ask for the same information back from the person you are currently speaking with.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of et (and) and toi (you, the stressed pronoun).
Which one should you use?
While et toi ? is used for individuals in informal settings, et vous ? is used when speaking to a stranger, a superior or a group of people. For an even more formal way to say "What about you?", you can use Et vous-même ?
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Et toi ? is an informal expression used among friends, family or peers of a similar age. For formal situations, use Et vous ? or the more formal Et vous-même ? You may also use the informal expression Et toi, alors? to add emphasis and convey interest.
Did you know?
- In French, using et toi ? when you should use et vous ? can be perceived as a social snub or an aggressive attempt to force intimacy with a stranger.
- The word et was originally written as just e in Old French before the 't' was added back in the 12th century to match its Latin ancestor.
- The formal Et vous-même ? literally translates to 'And yourself?', and is often used in high-end hospitality or luxury service to show extreme deference.
Examples in context
- Je vais bien, et toi ?I am doing well, and you?
- Moi, j'aime le café, et toi ?Me, I like coffee, and what about you?
- Je suis fatiguée, et toi ?I am tired, and you?
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are talking about their weekend plans.
- LéaJe vais au cinéma samedi, et toi ?I am going to the cinema on Saturday, what about you?
- NathanJe reste à la maison.I am staying at home.
- LéaC'est dommage, tu veux venir avec moi ?That's a shame, do you want to come with me?
- NathanOui, je veux bien !Yes, I would love to!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries et, toi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
