French · Question Words

quoi

what

Beginnerpronoun

Definition

Used to ask for information about something.

Example

Quoi de neuf?

What is new?

Etymology

'Quoi' derives from Old French 'quoi', which itself originates from Latin 'quod', used for emphasis or inquiry about things or situations.

How & Where It’s Used

'Quoi' is primarily used in spoken French, often in informal contexts, and can appear in written dialogue or stylistic literature.

Literary Heritage

It is a common element in conversations spanning all forms of French language, but not often highlighted in literary texts.

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