French grammar: pronoms interrogatifs simples

What this grammar point covers

Simple interrogative pronouns in French are words you use to ask questions about people or things, such as 'who?', 'what?', 'which?'.

When to use it

Use these pronouns in French to ask for information when you do not know the person, thing, or choice. They help you ask about identity, objects, or selection.

Key forms

• qui
• que / qu’
• quoi
• quel / quelle / quels / quelles

Examples

Tips

• Use 'qui' for people and 'que/quoi' for things.
• 'Quel' changes form depending on the gender and number of the noun (quel, quelle, quels, quelles).
• Use 'que' at the start of a question, and 'quoi' after a verb or preposition.

Exceptions and edge cases

• After a preposition, use 'qui' for people (e.g., 'Avec qui... ?').
• Use 'qu’' before a vowel or mute h (e.g., 'Qu’est-ce que... ?').