Relative and Interrogative Pronouns

Relative pronouns in French are used to link two related ideas into a single sentence. They are also used to describe a noun that has been previously mentioned. Primary ones are “que”, “qui”, “dont” and “où”.
“Que” is used as an object of a verb, with the pronoun “que” usually followed by a subject and then a verb.
“Qui” is used as the subject of a verb. This pronoun is a subject and is usually followed directly by a verb.
“Dont” is used in contexts that require ‘of which’, ‘from which’, or ‘whose’. For example, when talking about possessions.
“Où” is used to refer to places or times. It means ‘where’ or ‘when’.
Interrogative pronouns are used to ask questions. The main interrogative pronouns are “qui”, “que”, “lequel”, “auquel” and “duquel”.
“Qui” can be used to ask ‘who’ or ‘whom’, and can refer to both people and things. It also can means ‘what’ when followed by an preposition.
“Que” (or “qu’est-ce que”) is used to ask ‘what’. Use this pronoun when ‘what’ is the object of the verb.
“Lequel”, “auquel” and “duquel” are more complex interrogative pronouns and are used to ask ‘which’. They agree in gender and number with the noun they replace.
Questions using interrogative pronouns may also require the use of inversion (switching the subject and verb around) or the addition of “est-ce que” to form the question.
Practice is essential when it comes to mastering French pronouns. Look for opportunities to include them in your French practice, and pay attention to them when reading and listening to French.
Always review your work for correct usage of these pronouns. Remember the correct gender and plural forms. If it is incorrect, it can alter the meaning entirely.
Lastly, don’t forget to focus on pronunciation. French pronouns can often sound similar but are used differently depending on context. Practice will help you get used to these differences.