How to Use "Ce Que" vs "Ce Qui" in French
Understanding the difference between "ce que" and "ce qui" is crucial for constructing correct French sentences. These relative pronouns are often confused by French learners, but with a few simple rules, you can master their usage.
Basic Difference
- Ce que: Used for direct objects
- Ce qui: Used for subjects
Using "Ce Que"
"Ce que" is used when the relative clause is the direct object of the verb that follows. It's equivalent to "what" or "that which" in English.
Example:
- Je ne comprends pas ce que tu dis. (I don't understand what you're saying.)
- Ce que j'aime le plus, c'est le chocolat. (What I like most is chocolate.)
Using "Ce Qui"
"Ce qui" is used when the relative clause is the subject of the verb that follows. It's also translated as "what" or "that which" in English.
Example:
- Ce qui m'intéresse, c'est l'histoire. (What interests me is history.)
- Je ne sais pas ce qui va se passer. (I don't know what's going to happen.)
Quick Tip
To decide whether to use "ce que" or "ce qui", ask yourself: Is the clause acting as the subject or the object of the verb that follows?
- Subject → ce qui
- Object → ce que
Practice Exercise
Try to fill in the blanks with either "ce que" or "ce qui":
- ____ vous dites est intéressant.
- Je ne comprends pas ____ se passe ici.
- ____ je veux, c'est la paix.
- Dis-moi ____ tu penses de ce livre.
(Answers: 1. Ce que, 2. ce qui, 3. Ce que, 4. ce que)
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use these pronouns, the more natural they'll become in your French conversations.