Three ways of asking the same question?

J. B.C1Kwiziq community member

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

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:

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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