Meaning
An informal way to ask for a reason.
Cultural Background
In France, 'C'est pourquoi ?' is often accompanied by a slight shrug of the shoulders (the 'Gallic Shrug') to indicate casual interest. In Quebec, you might hear 'C'est pour quoi faire ?' more frequently than in France to ask for a reason behind an action. In French texting culture, 'pkoi' is the universal shorthand for 'pourquoi'.
The Softener
Use this instead of 'Pourquoi ?' to sound less aggressive when asking for a reason.
Spelling Matters
In writing, 'pourquoi' is one word for 'why'. 'Pour quoi' is two words for 'for what'.
Meaning
An informal way to ask for a reason.
The Softener
Use this instead of 'Pourquoi ?' to sound less aggressive when asking for a reason.
Spelling Matters
In writing, 'pourquoi' is one word for 'why'. 'Pour quoi' is two words for 'for what'.
Intonation
Make sure your voice goes up at the end, or it might sound like you're starting a sentence you didn't finish.
Test Yourself
Choose the most natural informal response.
Je ne mange pas de dessert. — ________ ?
'C'est pourquoi' is the standard informal way to ask 'Why?'.
Complete the text message.
Salut ! Je suis en retard. — Ah mince, c'est ________ ?
The phrase is 'C'est pourquoi ?'.
Match the phrase to the register.
Which one is 'Informal'?
'C'est pourquoi' is the informal choice.
Finish the dialogue.
A: Je change de travail. B: ________ ?
B is asking for a reason.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesJe ne mange pas de dessert. — ________ ?
'C'est pourquoi' is the standard informal way to ask 'Why?'.
Salut ! Je suis en retard. — Ah mince, c'est ________ ?
The phrase is 'C'est pourquoi ?'.
Which one is 'Informal'?
'C'est pourquoi' is the informal choice.
A: Je change de travail. B: ________ ?
B is asking for a reason.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsBoth exist! 'Pourquoi' (one word) means 'Why'. 'Pour quoi' (two words) means 'For what purpose'.
It's better to use 'Pourquoi ?' or 'Pour quelle raison ?' to remain professional.
Start your answer with 'C'est parce que...' (It's because...).
Yes, it's extremely common in modern French cinema and TV shows.
No, it is an invariable expression.
Texting slang is 'C pkoi ?'.
Related Phrases
C'est pour ça
contrastThat's why
Pourquoi pas ?
similarWhy not?
C'est pour quoi ?
similarWhat is it for?
C'est-à-dire ?
similarMeaning what?
