Bonjour! If you’re looking to learn how to say “What are we doing?” in French, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this question. Whether you’re planning a trip to France, attending a social gathering, or simply want to expand your language skills, these phrases will come in handy. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What Are We Doing?”
In formal situations, it’s essential to use proper etiquette and maintain a respectful tone. Here are some formal phrases you can use:
1. Qu’est-ce que nous faisons ?
This phrase directly translates to “What are we doing?” and is a straightforward way to express the question formally. It demonstrates your interest in the current activity without being overly informal.
2. Que sommes-nous en train de faire ?
This sentence, which means “What are we in the process of doing?”, is a more sophisticated way to ask the question. It implies that the activities are ongoing and may have a sense of importance or urgency.
Informal Ways to Ask “What Are We Doing?”
When talking among friends, family, or in casual settings, you can opt for more relaxed and informal expressions to ask what everyone is up to. Check out these phrases:
1. Qu’est-ce qu’on fait ?
This is a common and colloquial way to inquire about the current or future activities in an informal setting. By using “on” instead of “nous,” it gives a friendly and inclusive tone to the question. It’s perfect for casual conversations with friends or peers.
2. On est en train de faire quoi ?
With this phrase, which translates to “What are we in the middle of doing?”, you can take a more laid-back approach while still expressing curiosity about the ongoing activities. It works well when you want to know what others are occupying themselves with in a relaxed environment.
Common Regional Variations
French speakers around the world use slightly different expressions to ask “What are we doing?” depending on their region. While the formal and informal phrases covered earlier are understood universally, there are additional idiomatic variations you might encounter. Let’s explore a few examples:
Variation 1: Qu’est-ce qu’on fait là ?
This variation, often heard in France, uses “là” to emphasize the point in time. It can be roughly translated as “What are we doing at this moment?” and is especially popular in colloquial French conversations.
Variation 2: Qu’est-ce qu’on fout ?
This expression, commonly used in informal settings among youngsters, is considered quite familiar and may not be appropriate in more formal situations. It translates to “What are we doing/screwing around?” and should be used with caution, aware of the potential strong undertone.
Tips for Using the Phrases Fluently
Now that we have covered the various ways to say “What are we doing?” in French, here are some tips to help you use these phrases fluently:
1. Pay Attention to Pronunciation
French pronunciation can be challenging for non-native speakers. Practice the phrases aloud to ensure you’re pronouncing every word accurately. You can also listen to audio resources or consult with native speakers to refine your pronunciation.
2. Master Conjuguations
French verbs change based on the subject, so be sure to master verb conjugations. Practice conjugating common verbs like “faire” (to do) and “être” (to be) to create grammatically correct sentences.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Contextual Usage
Understanding the appropriate context for each phrase is crucial. Formal versions are better suited for professional or unfamiliar environments, while informal expressions work well among friends and family. Always adapt your speech to match the situation.
Examples in Conversations
To solidify your understanding, let’s provide some sample conversations incorporating the phrases we’ve learned:
Example 1:
Marie: Qu’est-ce que nous faisons ce soir ? (What are we doing tonight?)
Pierre: Nous nous rendons au cinéma. (We are going to the movies.)
Example 2:
Camille: Qu’est-ce qu’on fait demain ? (What are we doing tomorrow?)
Louis: On passe la journée à la plage. (We are spending the day at the beach.)
Remember, incorporating these phrases into your conversations will greatly enhance your French-speaking skills. Practice them whenever possible to become more comfortable and confident!
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing our comprehensive guide on how to say “What are we doing?” in French! You are now equipped with both formal and informal ways to express this question fluently. Remember to adapt your language based on the formality of the situation, and pay attention to any regional variations you may encounter. With practice and exposure to the language, your French fluency will continue to improve. Bonne chance!
