Bonjour! If you are eager to learn how to say “What is it?” in French, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you are in a formal setting or having a casual conversation with friends, we’ll cover all the necessary phrases and variations to help you express yourself effectively. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to ask “What is it?” in French!
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Formal Ways to Say “What is it?”
When you want to ask “What is it?” formally in French, you have a few options. Here are three phrases you can use:
- “Qu’est-ce que c’est?” – This is the most common and widely used way to ask “What is it?” in formal situations. Pronounced as “kest kuh say,” it literally translates to “What is it that it is?”
- “Que sont-ils?” – A more specific phrase to ask “What are they?” when referring to people or objects. Pronounce it as “kuh sohn-teel,” and it translates to “What are they?”
- “Qu’est-ce que c’est que cela?” – This is a more formal and elaborate way to ask “What is it?” Pronounced as “kest kuh say kuh suh-lah,” it literally means “What is it that it is that?”
Remember, using formal phrases in appropriate contexts, such as professional settings, is essential in French-speaking countries. However, if you’re in a more informal or casual situation, you have other options available to you. Let’s explore them below!
Informal Ways to Say “What is it?”
If you’re with friends, family, or in a relaxed conversation, formal phrases may feel too stiff. Here are some more informal and casual ways to ask “What is it?” in French:
- “C’est quoi?” – This is a commonly used informal phrase that you can use when asking “What is it?” Pronounce it as “say kwah,” and it translates to “What is it?” or “What’s that?”
- “Qu’est-ce?” – A simplified and abbreviated form of “Qu’est-ce que c’est?,” this phrase is often used in casual conversations. Pronounce it as “kest,” and it translates to “What is it?”
- “Quoi?” – A very casual and straightforward way to ask “What?” or “What is it?” Pronounce it as “kwah,” and it can be both a question or an exclamation, depending on the context.
These informal phrases are perfect for everyday conversations and interactions with friends. However, it’s important to keep in mind the context and not use them in formal settings or more professional environments.
Examples of Usage:
To help you understand the usage of these phrases, here are some examples that illustrate how to say “What is it?” in both formal and informal contexts:
Formal:
– Qu’est-ce que c’est? (What is it?)
– Que sont-ils? (What are they?)
– Qu’est-ce que c’est que cela? (What is it?)
Informal:
– C’est quoi? (What is it?)
– Qu’est-ce? (What is it?)
– Quoi? (What?) or (What is it?)
Remember, pronunciation is key in French, so make sure to practice these phrases to sound more natural.
Regional Variations
The French language, like any other, can vary across regions or countries. However, when it comes to asking “What is it?” there are no significant regional variations to be considered. The phrases mentioned earlier are universally understood in French-speaking regions.
That’s it! You now have a comprehensive guide on how to say “What is it?” in French. Whether you need to ask in a formal or informal context, you have plenty of options to choose from. Just remember to adapt your language based on the situation.
Merci beaucoup for reading this guide, and we hope it helps you on your journey to mastering the French language!
