French grammar: emploi des pronoms indéfinis

What this grammar point covers

Indefinite pronouns in French are words used to refer to people or things in a non-specific way, such as 'someone', 'something', or 'everyone'. They help you talk about things or people without naming them exactly.

When to use it

Use indefinite pronouns in French when you want to talk about people or things in general, without specifying exactly who or what. They are useful when you don't know, don't want to say, or don't need to mention the exact identity.

Key forms

• quelqu'un
• quelque chose
• chacun(e)
• personne
• rien
• tout
• aucun(e)
• autre(s)

Examples

Tips

• Some pronouns change form based on gender or number, like 'chacun' (masculine) and 'chacune' (feminine).
• Be careful: 'personne' and 'rien' are often used with 'ne' in negative sentences (e.g., 'Je ne vois personne').
• Most indefinite pronouns are singular, but some can be plural, like 'autres'.

Exceptions and edge cases

• In negative sentences, 'personne' and 'rien' are placed after the verb, and 'ne' comes before the verb.
• 'Tout' can mean 'everything' (singular) or 'all' (plural) depending on context.