Qu'est-ce que
What is it that
Language note: Common beginner phrase for questions.
Culture note: Starting questions with 'Qu'est-ce que' is conversationally engaging.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Qu'
[keh]
What
Used for asking about something.
Qu'est-ce que tu cherches ?
What are you looking for?
est
[eh]
is
Third-person singular present of 'be'.
Qu'est-ce qui est important pour toi ?
What is important for you?
-ce
[suh]
this
Used to refer to a person or thing close to the speaker.
Qu'est-ce que c'est, cela ?
What is this?
que
[kuh]
that
Used to identify a specific thing or person mentioned or understood.
Qu'est-ce que tu fais là ?
What are you doing there?
Phrase Parts
Qu'
What
Interrogative particle.
Qu'est-ce que c'est ?
What is this?
est-ce
(it) is
A phrase construction for questions.
Est-ce possible ?
Is it possible?
que
that
Conjunction used in indirect questions.
Je sais que tu viens.
I know that you're coming.
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