qui — meaning in English: who

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neutral very common

Usage

Native French speakers use 'qui' primarily in questions and relative clauses. For example, you might hear it in a conversation when asking about a person's identity, like, 'Qui est-ce ?' (Who is this?). It's also common in storytelling, as in 'Elle est la fille qui aime voyager' (She is the girl who loves to travel).

Synonyms & nuances

'Qui' specifically refers to people, whereas 'que' is used for things or ideas. When you want to inquire about a person or establish a connection in a sentence about someone, 'qui' is the go-to choice, making your communication more personal and engaging.

Culture

'Qui' has its roots in the Latin word 'qui', which also means 'who'. This connection highlights the continuity of language from ancient Rome to modern France. Interestingly, 'qui' is not just limited to identifying people; it also emphasizes the importance of relationships and community, reflecting the French cultural appreciation for social connections.

FAQ

Q.What does 'qui' mean in French?

'Qui' translates to 'who' in English, used to ask about someone's identity or in relative clauses.

Q.When do I use 'qui' versus 'que'?

'Qui' is used for people, while 'que' is used for things. For example, 'C'est la personne qui parle' (That's the person who is speaking) uses 'qui' for the person, while 'C'est la chose que j'aime' (That's the thing that I love) uses 'que' for the thing.

Q.Is 'qui' used in formal situations?

'Qui' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For instance, you can use it in a formal interview question or casual conversation with friends.

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