Difference between "ce qui" and "ce que" in French

French relative pronouns "ce qui" and "ce que" often confuse learners. This guide explains their differences and proper usage.

Basic Distinction

• Ce qui: Used for subjects
• Ce que: Used for direct objects

Usage Examples

Ce qui

"Ce qui" introduces a subordinate clause that acts as the subject of the main clause.

Example:

• Ce qui me plaît, c'est la cuisine française. (What pleases me is French cuisine.)

Ce que

"Ce que" introduces a subordinate clause that acts as the direct object of the main clause.

Example:

• Je ne comprends pas ce que tu dis. (I don't understand what you're saying.)

Common Structures

Ce qui + verb

• Ce qui arrive est incroyable. (What's happening is incredible.)

Ce que + subject + verb

• Ce que Marie a dit est vrai. (What Marie said is true.)

Tips for Remembering

Think of "qui" as relating to "who" (subject) and "que" as relating to "what" (object) in English.

Practice Exercise

Try completing these sentences:

1. _____ est important, c'est la santé. (What's important is health.)
2. Je ne sais pas _____ je vais faire demain. (I don't know what I'm going to do tomorrow.)

Answers: 1. Ce qui, 2. Ce que

Understanding the difference between "ce qui" and "ce que" will significantly improve your French sentence structure and clarity.