Guide: How to Say “What Does This Mean?” in French

Welcome to our guide on how to say “What does this mean?” in French! Whether you’re learning the language for travel, studies, or cultural enrichment, understanding how to ask this question is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways to inquire about the meaning of something. We’ll also take a look at some regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to express this question in French!

Formal Ways to Ask “What Does This Mean?”

When addressing someone formally or in a professional setting, it’s important to use polite language. Here are a few formal expressions you can use to ask “What does this mean?” in French:

1. Que signifie cela ?

The phrase “Que signifie cela ?” directly translates to “What does this mean?” in English. It is a formal and straightforward way of asking for clarification on the meaning of something. The word “cela” is a polite term for “this” in French.

2. Pourriez-vous m’expliquer la signification de ceci ?

Another formal way to ask “What does this mean?” is by using the sentence “Pourriez-vous m’expliquer la signification de ceci ?” This phrase translates to “Could you please explain the meaning of this?” in English. It shows respect and deference towards the person you are addressing.

Informal Ways to Ask “What Does This Mean?”

In casual conversations, with friends, or in informal settings, you can use more relaxed expressions to ask about the meaning of something. Let’s explore a few informal ways to say “What does this mean?” in French:

1. C’est quoi le sens de ça ?

You can use the phrase “C’est quoi le sens de ça ?” to ask “What does this mean?” in a more casual way. It translates to “What’s the meaning of this?” in English. This expression is commonly used in informal conversations among friends or acquaintances.

2. Qu’est-ce que ça veut dire ?

Another informal expression you can use is “Qu’est-ce que ça veut dire ?” which means “What does that mean?” in English. This phrase is frequently used in everyday conversations and allows you to ask for the meaning of something in a relaxed manner.

Tips and Examples

Here are a few tips and examples to help you use these phrases confidently in different situations:

Tips:

• Remember to use a polite tone when addressing someone formally.
• When using informal expressions, consider your relationship with the person you’re talking to.
• Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, can enhance your communication.
• Pay attention to the context of the conversation to ensure your question is relevant.

Examples:

Ex.1: Formal: Excusez-moi, pourriez-vous m’expliquer la signification de ce symbole ?
Translation: Excuse me, could you please explain the meaning of this symbol?

Ex.2: Informal: Hé, c’est quoi le sens de cette expression ?
Translation: Hey, what’s the meaning of this expression?

By using these phrases and considering the respective tones, you’ll be able to successfully ask the question “What does this mean?” in both formal and informal contexts. Practice these expressions with native speakers, listen to conversations, and engage in dialogues to improve your overall understanding and fluency in French.

Learning how to express this question respectfully and casually will enhance your communication skills, allowing you to navigate various social settings with ease. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become in asking for clarifications in French!

Nous espérons que ce guide vous a été utile! (We hope this guide has been useful to you!) Bonne chance! (Good luck!)