In French, asking questions is really important for starting and keeping conversations going.

Knowing some main question words can help you talk better with others.

Let’s take a look at some key question words and how to use them:

Important Question Words

1. Qui - Who

   • Example: Qui est-ce ? (Who is it?)

2. Quoi - What

   • Example: Quoi de neuf ? (What’s new?)

3. Où - Where

   • Example: Où est la gare ? (Where is the train station?)

4. Quand - When

   • Example: Quand commences-tu ? (When do you start?)

5. Pourquoi - Why

   • Example: Pourquoi es-tu en retard ? (Why are you late?)

6. Comment - How

   • Example: Comment ça va ? (How are you?)

7. Combien - How many / How much

   • Example: Combien ça coûte ? (How much does it cost?)

Being Polite

It’s nice to be polite when you ask questions.

For example, saying “s'il vous plaît” (please) makes your question kinder.

• Example: Où est le restaurant, s'il vous plaît ? (Where is the restaurant, please?)

Tips for Speaking

• R: The French “r” can sound a little rough. Try saying “Bonjour” (Hello) to practice.
• U: The sound in “tu” (you) is different from English. Make sure to round your lips when you say it.

Listening Skills

To get better at listening, try to follow simple conversations.

Pay attention to the main question words and how they are used in different situations.

Practice Conversation

A: Salut ! Comment ça va ?
B: Ça va bien, merci ! Et toi ?
A: Quoi de neuf ?
B: Pas grand-chose, où est-ce que tu vas ?

Keep practicing these question words and polite phrases. They will help you improve your basic French conversation skills!