Three ways of asking the same question?

J. B.C1Kwiziq community member

Three ways of asking the same question?

Hi

There are three phrases which the lesson translates into the same expression “What is a pen?”

Qu’est-ce que / Qu’est-ce qu’un stylo ?

Qu’est-ce que c’est / Qu’est-ce que c’est un stylo ?

Qu’est-ce que c’est que / Qu’est-ce que c’est qu’un stylo ?

What is the difference between the 3 questions? When should each one be used?

Thanks

This question relates to:French lesson "Qu'est-ce que c'est... and Qu'est-ce que c'est que ça/cela ? = What is... / What's that? in French"

Asked 3 years ago

CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi John,

There is no difference between the three ways suggested to say

'what is a pen', so take your pick and use the one you prefer.

Bonne Continuation!

Like13 years ago

Carol W.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

what about c'est quoi un stylo, is that very informl, or just as acceptable?

Like13 years ago

J. B. asked:View original

Three ways of asking the same question?

Hi

There are three phrases which the lesson translates into the same expression “What is a pen?”

Qu’est-ce que / Qu’est-ce qu’un stylo ?

Qu’est-ce que c’est / Qu’est-ce que c’est un stylo ?

Qu’est-ce que c’est que / Qu’est-ce que c’est qu’un stylo ?

What is the difference between the 3 questions? When should each one be used?

Thanks

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