Greetings! Whether you’re a traveler or simply looking to expand your language skills, learning how to say “What are you doing?” in France is a useful phrase for engaging in conversations and connecting with local French speakers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways of asking this question, providing tips, examples, and even regional variations. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
When addressing someone you have just met or speaking with an authority figure, it’s important to utilize formal language. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. Que faites-vous ? (keh fet-voo)
2. Que fais-tu ? (keh feh too) (informal singular)
These phrases directly translate to “What are you doing?” and are widely understood throughout France. Remember to use the appropriate pronoun and verb form based on whether you’re addressing someone formally (vous) or informally (tu).
Informal Ways to Ask “What Are You Doing?”
When conversing with friends, family, or peers, you can opt for a more casual approach. Here are a couple of commonly used phrases:
1. Qu’est-ce que tu fais ? (keh ssuh kuh feh) (informal singular)
2. Tu fais quoi ? (too feh kwa) (informal singular)
These informal expressions are perfect for relaxed conversations and are widely spoken among younger generations in France.
Regional Variations
The French language, like any other, has a range of regional variations that add charm and uniqueness to the way people speak. While the previous phrases are widely understood across the country, here are a few regional variations you might come across:
- Brittany: “Qu’est-ce que t’es en train de faire ?” (keh ssuh tuh trahn deh feh-re) – This is a regional variation found in the Brittany region of France.
- Provence: “Que t’eschies ?” (keh tesh-ee) – This regional expression is commonly used in the Provence region.
Most of these variations are informal and might not be as universally understood, so it’s best to stick to the previously mentioned phrases for general communication purposes.
Tips and Examples
Now that we’ve covered the formal and informal ways of asking “What are you doing?” in France, let’s explore some tips and examples to help you understand the phrase better:
Tips:
- Pay attention to the appropriate pronouns and verb forms based on the formality of the conversation.
- Consider the context, as it may influence the choice of phrase you use.
- Always be polite, regardless of whether you’re speaking formally or informally.
Examples:
- Formal: “Excusez-moi, que faites-vous ? J’aimerais connaître votre activité.” (Ex-kyoo-zay mwa, keh fet-voo? Zhe-meh-ray koh-nah-truh vo-truh ahk-tee-vee-tay) – Excuse me, what are you doing? I would like to know about your activity.
- Informal: “Hé, tu fais quoi ce soir ? On pourrait sortir ensemble.” (Ey, too feh kwa suh swahr? On poor-ray sor-teer ahn-som-bl) – Hey, what are you doing tonight? We could go out together.
Remember, practicing these phrases regularly will help you become more confident in speaking French and allow you to engage in conversations with ease while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Voilà! You now have a comprehensive guide on how to say “What are you doing?” in France. Whether you choose to use the formal or informal expressions, or even explore regional variations, expressing interest in someone’s activities is a great way to start a conversation and make connections. Enjoy your linguistic journey and have fun discovering the beauty of the French language!
