How to Say "What Is It" in French

Asking "What is it?" is a common and useful phrase in any language. In French, there are several ways to express this question, depending on the context and level of formality. Let's explore the most common expressions.

Informal expressions

Qu'est-ce que c'est ?

This is the most common way to ask "What is it?" in everyday French conversations.

Example:

• Qu'est-ce que c'est ? - What is it?
• Qu'est-ce que c'est que ça ? - What's this?

C'est quoi ?

A more casual and shortened version, often used in spoken French.

Example:

• C'est quoi, ça ? - What's that?

Formal expressions

Qu'est-ce ?

A more formal and literary way to ask "What is it?"

Example:

• Qu'est-ce donc ? - What is it, then?

De quoi s'agit-il ?

This phrase is more formal and can be translated as "What is it about?" or "What's the matter?"

Example:

• De quoi s'agit-il exactement ? - What exactly is this about?

Context-specific phrases

Qu'est-ce que ça veut dire ?

Use this phrase when you want to ask about the meaning of something.

Example:

• Qu'est-ce que ça veut dire, ce mot ? - What does this word mean?

Qu'est-ce qui se passe ?

This phrase is used to ask "What's happening?" or "What's going on?"

Example:

• Qu'est-ce qui se passe ici ? - What's going on here?

Remember, the choice of phrase depends on the situation and who you're speaking to. In casual settings, "C'est quoi ?" or "Qu'est-ce que c'est ?" work well. For more formal situations, opt for "De quoi s'agit-il ?" or "Qu'est-ce ?"

Practice these phrases to confidently ask "What is it?" in various French-speaking contexts.