How to Say ‘What is that?’ in French
C'est quoi ça?
💬 Usage Tip: An informal expression, use with friends or when casually curious.
🇫🇷 In France: Inquisitive and direct, perfect for unexpected discoveries.
Phrase Breakdown
C'est
It is
A contraction used to identify or explain something.
C'est une voiture
It is a car
quoi
what
Used in questions to ask for information.
Quoi de neuf?
What's new?
ça
that
Used to refer to something previously mentioned or a situation.
ça marche
that works
Word-by-Word Breakdown
C'
[se]
It's
Contraction of 'C'est', used for identification or clarification.
C'est quoi ce bruit là-bas?
What is that noise over there?
est
[eh]
Is
Used to specify a state, condition, or presence.
Est-ce un ennemi?
Is it an enemy?
quoi
[kwa]
What
Interrogative pronoun used to ask for information.
Quoi là-bas derrière le mur?
What's over there behind the wall?
ça
[sa]
That
Demonstrative pronoun to indicate something specific.
Ça semble suspect.
That seems suspicious.
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