qu'elles — meaning in English: they

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Guess the translation for they

nous

qu'elles

rien

Quelle

milliers

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'qu'elles' in contexts where they are discussing a group of females, such as in conversations about friends, family, or colleagues. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Qu'elles viennent ce soir?' when inquiring if a group of female friends are coming over for dinner.

Synonyms & nuances

'Qu'elles' is specifically used for groups of women and is not interchangeable with 'ils,' which refers to groups of men or mixed-gender groups. Choosing 'qu'elles' emphasizes the female aspect of the subject, making it clear that you are specifically referring to women.

Culture

'Qu'elles' is derived from the contraction of 'que' and 'elles,' showcasing how French often combines words for fluidity in conversation. This word reflects the gendered nature of the French language, where nouns and pronouns are gendered, which can sometimes trip up learners. Interestingly, it's a word that highlights the importance of social context, as using the correct form of pronouns can signal inclusivity or exclusivity in group discussions.

FAQ

Q.What does 'qu'elles' mean in English?

'Qu'elles' translates to 'that they' in English, specifically referring to a group of females. It is a conjunction and pronoun used to describe actions or states pertaining to women.

Q.When do I use 'qu'elles' rather than 'elles'?

'Qu'elles' is used in clauses where you need to connect information, such as after conjunctions like 'que'. You would use 'elles' when simply referring to the women directly without additional connection.

Q.Are there common mistakes to avoid when using 'qu'elles'?

A common mistake is using 'qu'elles' with mixed-gender groups, where 'ils' should be used instead. Additionally, ensure the context requires a conjunction to properly use 'qu'elles'.

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