Difference between revisions of "Language/French/Grammar/Use-of-relative-quoi"
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== Introduction == | == Introduction == | ||
The relative pronoun "quoi" is less common than other relative pronouns like "qui" and "que," but it serves specific functions in the French language. It is usually used in spoken French to mean "which" or "that" and often comes after a preposition. | The relative pronoun "quoi" is less common than other relative pronouns like "qui" and "que," but it serves specific functions in the French language. It is usually used in spoken French to mean "which" or "that" and often comes after a preposition. | ||
== 1. Structure == | == 1. Structure == | ||
Revision as of 15:34, 16 September 2023
The Use of "quoi" as a Relative Pronoun in French
Introduction
The relative pronoun "quoi" is less common than other relative pronouns like "qui" and "que," but it serves specific functions in the French language. It is usually used in spoken French to mean "which" or "that" and often comes after a preposition.
1. Structure
"Quoi" is generally used after prepositions like "à," "de," "pour," etc.
- Example: Il ne sait pas à quoi tu fais référence. (He doesn't know to what you're referring.)
2. "Quoi" with Prepositions
Different prepositions can change the meaning of the sentence.
- De quoi: Capable de quoi ? (Capable of what?)
- Pour quoi: C'est pour quoi ? (What's this for?)
3. Informal Speech
Note that "quoi" is often used in informal speech and is generally avoided in formal or written language.
4. Examples and Exercises
Examples
- Il se demande pour quoi je suis venu. (He wonders for what I came.)
- Je ne sais pas de quoi tu parles. (I don't know of what you're talking.)
Exercises
- Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with "à quoi," "de quoi," "pour quoi," etc.
- Exercise 2: Translate the following sentences into French, making use of "quoi."
Conclusion
Although "quoi" is not as frequently used as other relative pronouns, understanding its functions can give you a more nuanced understanding of everyday French speech.