When to use QUI or QUE in French?
In French, “qui” and “que” are both pronouns that are used to link subjects and objects to verbs.
They both can be translated to “who” or “that” in English.
However, there are some key differences between the two, which will be explained in this lesson along with examples.
When to use “qui”:
1. “Qui” is used to refer to the subject of the sentence, meaning the person or thing performing the action. For example:
“Paul mange” (Paul is eating). Here, “Paul” is the subject, so “qui” can be used to say “Who is eating?”
“Le chat dort” (The cat is sleeping). In this sentence, “Le chat” (the cat) is the subject, so “qui” can be used to ask “Who is sleeping?”
2. “Qui” can also be used to refer to the person being asked in a question, such as:
“Qui es-tu?” (Who are you?). Here, “qui” refers to the person being asked.
When to use “que”:
1. “Que” is used to refer to the direct object of the sentence, meaning the person or thing that the action is being performed on. For example:
“Paul mange une pomme” (Paul is eating an apple). Here, “une pomme” (an apple) is the direct object, so “que” can be used to ask “What is Paul eating?”
“Le chat dort sur le lit” (The cat is sleeping on the bed). In this sentence, “le lit” (the bed) is the direct object, so “que” can be used to ask “What is the cat sleeping on?”
2. “Que” can also be used to connect a noun phrase to a verb, for example:
“Il veut que tu viennes” (He wants you to come). Here, “que tu viennes” (that you come) is connected to the verb “veut” (wants) with “que”.
In conclusion, “qui” is used to refer to the subject of the sentence or the person being asked in a question, while “que” is used to refer to the direct object of the sentence or to connect a noun phrase to a verb.
It is important to understand the difference between these two pronouns in order to effectively communicate in French.
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