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A1 noun #400 most common 9 min read

question

Top 400

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips question in 30 Seconds

Explanation question in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'question' is one of the first nouns you will learn. It is used in its most literal sense: an inquiry for information. You will learn to use it with the verb 'poser' (to ask/pose). At this stage, you should focus on simple sentences like 'J'ai une question' (I have a question) or 'Une question, s'il vous plaît' (A question, please). You will also encounter it in the context of learning how to ask questions using 'Est-ce que...' or inversion. Understanding that 'question' is feminine (la question) is essential for basic grammar agreement. You will mostly hear it in a classroom setting where the teacher asks if anyone has questions. It is a vital word for survival French, as it allows you to signal that you need help or more information. You don't need to worry about complex idiomatic uses yet; just focus on the basic 'ask and answer' dynamic. Remember: always 'poser une question,' never 'demander une question.' This simple rule will make your French sound much more authentic from the very beginning.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'question' in slightly more varied contexts. You will learn to describe questions using basic adjectives, such as 'une question facile' (an easy question) or 'une question importante' (an important question). You will also start to use the plural form 'des questions' more frequently. In this stage, you might encounter the word in everyday situations like at a tourist office or a shop: 'Je peux vous poser quelques questions sur la ville ?' (Can I ask you a few questions about the city?). You will also become more comfortable with the verb 'répondre à' (to answer to), learning that it requires the preposition 'à'. For example, 'Il répond aux questions des clients' (He answers the customers' questions). You might also see the word in the context of 'une question de' followed by a noun, like 'une question d'argent' (a matter of money), though this is just the beginning of its more abstract uses. Your goal at A2 is to use 'question' to facilitate basic social interactions and to gather specific information in a predictable environment.

At the B1 level, you start to encounter 'question' in more abstract and idiomatic ways. You will learn the expression 'il est question de...', which is used to introduce the subject of a discussion or a text. For example, 'Dans cet article, il est question de l'environnement' (In this article, it's about the environment). You will also learn the strong refusal 'Il n'en est pas question !' (No way! / Out of the question!). This level also introduces the concept of 'remettre en question' (to challenge or call into question), which is useful for expressing opinions and participating in debates. You will use 'question' to discuss social issues, such as 'la question du chômage' (the issue of unemployment). Your vocabulary will expand to include synonyms like 'interrogation' or 'problème' depending on the context. You are now expected to handle 'question' in more complex sentence structures, including those with relative pronouns: 'La question que vous avez posée est pertinente' (The question you asked is relevant). This level marks the transition from using the word for simple information gathering to using it as a tool for discussion and expression of doubt.

At the B2 level, you use 'question' with greater precision and in more formal contexts. You will encounter it in professional and academic settings, such as 'une question d'ordre technique' (a technical question) or 'une question de fond' (a fundamental question). You should be comfortable using it in debates to structure your arguments, for example, 'La question est de savoir si...' (The question is whether...). You will also learn more sophisticated collocations like 'soulever une question' (to raise a question) or 'éluder une question' (to evade a question). In literature or news analysis, you will see 'question' used to describe broad themes or societal debates, such as 'la question identitaire' (the question of identity). You will also understand the nuance between 'une question' and 'une problématique' in an academic essay. At this level, you can use the word to navigate complex social dynamics, knowing when to ask a 'question ouverte' (open-ended question) versus a 'question fermée' (closed question) to achieve your communicative goals. Your use of the word reflects a deeper understanding of French logic and rhetorical style.

At the C1 level, your use of 'question' is nuanced and stylistically varied. You understand its role in high-level discourse, such as in the 'Question Prioritaire de Constitutionnalité' in French law or in philosophical inquiries like 'la question de l'altérité' (the question of otherness). You can use the word to express subtle shades of meaning, such as 'une question épineuse' (a thorny question) or 'une question subsidiaire' (a follow-up or secondary question). You are familiar with literary and historical references where the word is central, such as 'La Question' by Henri Alleg, a famous book about torture during the Algerian War. You can use 'question' to critique arguments effectively, using phrases like 'cela ne fait aucun doute, la question ne se pose même pas' (there is no doubt, the question doesn't even arise). You are also adept at using the word in professional negotiations, where 'la question des modalités' (the question of procedures) might be a key point of discussion. Your mastery of 'question' at this level allows you to engage in sophisticated intellectual exchanges and to understand the deep cultural and historical weight the word can carry in French society.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'question' in all its forms, from the most mundane to the most esoteric. You can use it with total idiomatic accuracy and stylistic flair. You understand the philosophical implications of 'la mise en question' of traditional values or scientific paradigms. You can navigate the most formal environments, such as diplomatic circles or high-level academic conferences, where 'la question' might refer to a complex geopolitical issue or a groundbreaking theoretical problem. You are aware of the word's etymological roots and how they influence its current usage. You can use the word in complex rhetorical figures, such as 'question oratoire' (rhetorical question), to persuade and engage your audience. You also recognize the word in various registers, from slang to the most elevated prose. At this level, 'question' is not just a word you use; it is a concept you manipulate to explore the boundaries of language and thought. You can discuss the 'question' of the French language itself, its evolution, and its future with the same ease as asking for a 'question de détail' in a contract. Your command of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

question in 30 Seconds

The French word 'question' is a feminine noun meaning 'question' or 'issue.'
Always use the verb 'poser' (to pose) when you want to say 'to ask a question.'
It can refer to a literal inquiry or a broader topic of debate or concern.
Commonly used in expressions like 'il est question de' (it's about) and 'il n'en est pas question' (no way).

The French word question is a fundamental noun that translates directly to the English word 'question.' At its core, it refers to a sentence or phrase used to find out information. However, in French, its usage extends far beyond simple inquiries. It is a feminine noun (la question), and understanding its gender is the first step for any learner. Whether you are in a classroom, a business meeting, or a casual conversation, this word is ubiquitous. It encompasses the act of asking, the subject of a debate, and even the concept of a problem or issue to be resolved. In the French educational system, the ability to formulate a 'bonne question' is highly valued, reflecting a cultural emphasis on critical thinking and analytical inquiry. When you use this word, you are participating in the most basic form of human interaction: the exchange of knowledge. It is used in various registers, from the very formal 'question d'actualité' (current issue) to the common 'poser une question' (to ask a question). Unlike English, where we 'ask' a question, in French, you 'pose' one. This distinction is crucial for sounding natural. Furthermore, the word can imply a matter of doubt or a topic under discussion, such as in the phrase 'la question du climat' (the climate issue). Understanding the nuances of this word allows a speaker to navigate social and professional landscapes with clarity. It is not just about the interrogation mark at the end of a sentence; it is about the topic at hand.

Grammatical Gender: Feminine (la question, une question, les questions).

Primary Verb Collocation: Poser (to pose/ask). Never use 'demander une question'.

Abstract Meaning: Refers to a 'matter' or 'issue' (e.g., une question de temps).

Puis-je vous poser une question sur ce projet ?

C'est une question de vie ou de mort.

Il n'est pas question de partir maintenant.

Répondez à la question, s'il vous plaît.

La question est complexe.

Using question correctly involves mastering several common sentence structures. The most frequent use is with the verb poser. For example, 'Je pose une question' (I am asking a question). It is also frequently used with the verb répondre (to answer), as in 'Il répond à la question' (He answers the question). Note the use of the preposition à after répondre. Another important structure is 'Il est question de...', which means 'It is about...' or 'The subject is...'. This is a more formal way to introduce a topic. For instance, 'Dans ce livre, il est question de la Révolution française' (In this book, it is about the French Revolution). You will also encounter the negative expression 'Il n'en est pas question,' which translates to 'That's out of the question' or 'No way.' This is a very strong way to refuse something. In academic or professional settings, you might hear 'remettre en question,' which means to challenge or call something into question. For example, 'Il a remis en question ma décision' (He challenged my decision). This shows how the word moves from a simple grammatical unit to a conceptual tool for debate and critique. When discussing multiple items, the plural questions is used, often in the context of a 'foire aux questions' (FAQ). Pay attention to the adjectives that accompany it; because it is feminine, adjectives must agree: 'une question pertinente' (a relevant question), 'une question difficile' (a difficult question). In everyday speech, if someone asks 'Une question ?', they are simply asking if you have any questions. It is a concise and effective way to open the floor for discussion.

With 'Poser': Est-ce que je peux vous poser une question ? (Can I ask you a question?)

With 'Répondre': Elle n'a pas voulu répondre à ma question. (She didn't want to answer my question.)

Idiomatic Use: C'est une question de principe. (It's a matter of principle.)

Voici la question que tout le monde se pose.

Il y a beaucoup de questions sans réponse.

La question mérite d'être examinée.

In France and other French-speaking regions, question is a staple of daily life. In the classroom, students are constantly encouraged to 'poser des questions' to clarify their understanding. Teachers might start a lesson by saying, 'Avez-vous des questions sur le cours précédent ?' (Do you have any questions about the previous lesson?). In the workplace, meetings often conclude with a 'séance de questions-réponses' (Q&A session). In the media, journalists frequently use the word when interviewing politicians or experts, often using the phrase 'La question qui se pose est...' (The question that arises is...). On television, game shows like 'Questions pour un champion' have made the word a household name, associating it with knowledge and quick thinking. In the legal system, a 'question prioritaire de constitutionnalité' (QPC) is a well-known procedure where the constitutionality of a law is challenged. Even in casual settings, you'll hear it used to express skepticism or to set boundaries. If a friend suggests an expensive trip, you might reply, 'C'est une question de budget' (It's a matter of budget). In shops, a salesperson might ask, 'Avez-vous une question sur ce produit ?' (Do you have a question about this product?). The word is also central to French philosophy and literature, where 'la question de l'être' (the question of being) or 'la question sociale' (the social question) are major themes. It is a word that bridges the gap between the mundane and the profound, making it an essential part of the French linguistic landscape. Whether it's a child asking 'Pourquoi ?' or a scientist investigating the mysteries of the universe, the question is the starting point of all discovery.

Bienvenue à notre séance de questions-réponses.

C'est une excellente question, merci de l'avoir posée.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with question is using the wrong verb. In English, we 'ask' a question. The direct translation of 'to ask' is demander. However, in French, you cannot say *demander une question. This sounds very unnatural to a native speaker. Instead, you must use the verb poser. Think of it as 'posing' a question to an audience. Another common error is the gender. Many learners assume that because it ends in '-ion', it might be masculine, or they simply forget that most '-ion' words in French are feminine. It is always la question. Misusing the preposition after répondre is another pitfall. You 'répondre à une question,' not just 'répondre une question.' Furthermore, learners often confuse 'une question' with 'une demande.' While a question is an inquiry for information, a 'demande' is a request for an action or an object. For example, if you want a glass of water, that's a 'demande,' not a 'question.' Another subtle mistake involves the expression 'il est question de.' Learners sometimes try to use 'il s'agit de' and 'il est question de' interchangeably. While they are similar, 'il est question de' often implies that the subject is being discussed or debated, whereas 'il s'agit de' is a more general way to say 'it is about.' Finally, be careful with the word 'interrogation.' While it can mean a question, it often carries a more formal or even police-related connotation (like an interrogation). In a classroom, an 'interrogation' is a quiz or a test, not just a simple question you ask the teacher.

The 'Demander' Trap: Incorrect: Je veux demander une question. Correct: Je veux poser une question.

Gender Confusion: Incorrect: Le question est simple. Correct: La question est simple.

Preposition Omission: Incorrect: Répondez ma question. Correct: Répondez à ma question.

Attention : on dit poser une question, pas demander.

While question is the most common word for an inquiry, French offers several synonyms and related terms depending on the context. Interrogation is a more formal synonym, often used in grammatical or legal contexts. In a school setting, 'une interrogation' (or 'une interro') refers to a short test or quiz. Demande is used when you are requesting something rather than just seeking information. For example, 'une demande de renseignements' is a request for information. Problème or Sujet can be used when 'question' refers to a matter or topic. For instance, 'le sujet en question' means 'the subject in question.' Enquête is used for a formal investigation or a survey, which is essentially a series of questions. Doute might be used if the question implies uncertainty. If you want to be more specific about the type of question, you might use interpellation (a formal questioning, often in parliament) or consultation (asking for professional advice). In the digital age, FAQ (Foire Aux Questions) is standard for a list of common inquiries. Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the right word for the right situation. For example, you wouldn't use 'interrogation' when asking a friend for the time; 'question' is much more appropriate. Conversely, in a scientific paper, you might refer to the 'problématique' (the research question or set of problems) rather than just a single 'question.' This richness of vocabulary allows for precise communication in French.

Question vs. Interrogation: 'Question' is general; 'Interrogation' is formal, legal, or refers to a school quiz.

Question vs. Demande: 'Question' seeks info; 'Demande' seeks an action or item.

Question vs. Problématique: 'Question' is a single inquiry; 'Problématique' is a complex set of related issues in a study.

Le professeur a donné une interrogation surprise.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"La question de la souveraineté nationale est primordiale."

Neutral

"J'ai une question à vous poser sur ce dossier."

Informal

"T'as une question ?"

Child friendly

"Tu as une petite question pour maman ?"

Slang

"C'est quoi ta question chelou ?"

Fun Fact

The word 'question' has been used in French since the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, 'la question' specifically referred to judicial torture used to extract confessions.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kɛs.tjɔ̃/

US /kɛs.tjɔ̃/

In French, stress is usually on the last syllable: ques-TION.

Rhymes With

Attention Passion Action Nation Émotion Solution Direction Position

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'qu' like 'kw' (as in English). In French, it's just 'k'.
Pronouncing the 'tion' like 'shun'. In French, it's 'tjɔ̃'.
Forgetting the nasal vowel at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize as it is a cognate.

Writing 2/5

Easy, but remember the feminine gender and '-ion' ending.

Speaking 3/5

Moderate due to the nasal pronunciation and the 'poser' vs 'demander' rule.

Listening 2/5

Generally easy to hear, though the nasal ending can be tricky for beginners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

La (feminine article) Une (feminine article) Poser (to put/pose) Répondre (to answer) Savoir (to know)

Learn Next

Réponse (answer) Demander (to ask/request) Pourquoi (why) Comment (how) Sujet (subject)

Advanced

Problématique Interrogation Élucider Subsidiaire Controverse

Grammar to Know

Asking questions with 'Est-ce que'

Est-ce que tu as une question ?

Asking questions with Inversion

As-tu une question ?

Feminine noun agreement with adjectives

Une question pertinente.

The use of 'à' after the verb 'répondre'

Je réponds à la question.

The transformation of 'un/une' to 'de' in negative sentences

Je n'ai pas de question.

Examples by Level

J'ai une question.

I have a question.

'Une' is used because 'question' is feminine.

Posez votre question.

Ask your question.

The verb 'poser' is used instead of 'demander'.

C'est une question facile.

It is an easy question.

The adjective 'facile' follows the noun.

Quelle est la question ?

What is the question?

'Quelle' is the feminine form of 'which/what'.

Je ne comprends pas la question.

I don't understand the question.

Standard negation using 'ne... pas'.

Une question, s'il vous plaît.

A question, please.

Polite request using 's'il vous plaît'.

Écrivez la question.

Write the question.

Imperative form of 'écrire'.

Il y a trois questions.

There are three questions.

Plural form 'questions' with an 's'.

Pouvez-vous répéter la question ?

Can you repeat the question?

Use of 'pouvez-vous' for a polite request.

C'est une question très importante.

It is a very important question.

Adjective 'importante' agrees with the feminine noun.

Il répond à toutes les questions.

He answers all the questions.

The verb 'répondre' is followed by the preposition 'à'.

J'ai une question sur le menu.

I have a question about the menu.

Preposition 'sur' used to mean 'about'.

Voulez-vous poser une question ?

Do you want to ask a question?

Inversion used for a formal question.

La question est un peu difficile.

The question is a bit difficult.

'Un peu' used as an adverb of degree.

Il n'y a pas de question bête.

There is no such thing as a stupid question.

After a negation, 'un/une' becomes 'de'.

C'est une question de temps.

It's a matter of time.

Abstract use of 'question' meaning 'matter'.

Il est question de changer les règles.

It's about changing the rules.

The expression 'il est question de' introduces a topic.

Il n'en est pas question !

No way! / Out of the question!

Idiomatic expression for a strong refusal.

Nous devons remettre en question nos habitudes.

We must challenge our habits.

'Remettre en question' means to challenge or reconsider.

C'est une question qui mérite réflexion.

It's a question that deserves thought.

Relative clause starting with 'qui'.

La question du logement est cruciale.

The housing issue is crucial.

'Question' used here to mean 'issue' or 'topic'.

Je me pose souvent cette question.

I often ask myself this question.

Reflexive use of 'se poser'.

Il a éludé la question avec adresse.

He skillfully evaded the question.

The verb 'éluder' means to avoid or evade.

C'est une question de principe pour moi.

It's a matter of principle for me.

Fixed expression 'question de principe'.

La question est de savoir si nous avons le budget.

The question is whether we have the budget.

Formal structure 'La question est de savoir si...'.

Cette décision soulève de nombreuses questions.

This decision raises many questions.

'Soulever' is the formal verb for 'to raise' a question.

Il s'agit d'une question de fond.

It is a fundamental question.

'Question de fond' refers to the core of an issue.

La question reste entière.

The question remains completely open.

Idiom meaning the problem has not been solved at all.

C'est une question épineuse à résoudre.

It's a thorny question to solve.

'Épineuse' (thorny) is a common metaphorical adjective.

Il a répondu sans détour à la question.

He answered the question directly.

'Sans détour' means without beating around the bush.

La question d'actualité a été débattue.

The current issue was debated.

'Question d'actualité' refers to a current event/topic.

Il faut aborder la question avec prudence.

The question must be approached with caution.

'Aborder' means to approach or tackle a subject.

La question de l'éthique est au cœur du débat.

The question of ethics is at the heart of the debate.

Formal academic phrasing.

Il a posé une question subsidiaire.

He asked a follow-up/secondary question.

'Subsidiaire' refers to something secondary or additional.

La question ne se pose même pas.

The question doesn't even arise / It's a non-issue.

Pronominal form 'se poser' meaning 'to arise'.

C'est une question de survie pour l'entreprise.

It's a matter of survival for the company.

Strong metaphorical use of 'question de'.

Il a été soumis à une question serrée.

He was subjected to close questioning.

'Question serrée' implies intense or rigorous questioning.

La question demeure en suspens.

The question remains pending/unresolved.

'En suspens' means hanging or undecided.

Il a traité la question de manière exhaustive.

He treated the question exhaustively.

'Exhaustive' means thorough and complete.

C'est une question qui divise l'opinion publique.

It's a question that divides public opinion.

Use of 'divise' to show conflict.

L'auteur explore la question de la finitude humaine.

The author explores the question of human finitude.

High-level philosophical usage.

La question oratoire ne nécessite pas de réponse.

The rhetorical question does not require an answer.

'Oratoire' is the formal term for rhetorical.

Il s'agit d'une question préjudicielle.

It is a preliminary/interlocutory question.

Legal terminology (prejudicial question).

La question de la légitimité du pouvoir est posée.

The question of the legitimacy of power is raised.

Passive voice 'est posée'.

Il a balayé la question d'un revers de main.

He dismissed the question with a flick of the wrist.

Idiomatic expression for total dismissal.

La question est d'une complexité inouïe.

The question is of unheard-of complexity.

'Inouïe' means incredible or unheard of.

C'est une question qui hante la littérature moderne.

It's a question that haunts modern literature.

Metaphorical use of 'hanter' (to haunt).

La question de l'être est au centre de sa philosophie.

The question of being is at the center of his philosophy.

Ontological usage.

Common Collocations

Poser une question

Répondre à une question

Une question difficile

Une question pertinente

Remettre en question

La question se pose

Une question de temps

Une question de principe

Soulever une question

Éluder une question

Common Phrases

J'ai une question.

— I have a question. Used to signal you want to ask something.

Excusez-moi, j'ai une question.

Pas de question ?

— No questions? Used by speakers to see if the audience needs clarification.

C'est tout pour aujourd'hui. Pas de question ?

Bonne question !

— Good question! Used to acknowledge a smart or difficult inquiry.

Ah, c'est une bonne question !

La question suivante.

— The next question. Used in tests or interviews.

Passons à la question suivante.

En question.

— In question / at hand. Refers to the specific thing being discussed.

L'homme en question est déjà parti.

Hors de question.

— Out of the question. Used for a strong refusal.

Il est hors de question que je sorte sous la pluie.

Une question bête.

— A stupid question. Often used self-deprecatingly.

C'est peut-être une question bête, mais...

Foire aux questions (FAQ).

— Frequently Asked Questions. Common on websites.

Consultez notre foire aux questions pour plus d'infos.

Sans question.

— Without question / undoubtedly. (Note: 'Sans aucun doute' is more common).

C'est sans question le meilleur choix.

Toute la question est là.

— That is the whole point / That's the main issue.

Mais est-ce légal ? Toute la question est là.

Often Confused With

question vs Demande

A 'demande' is a request for an action; a 'question' is a request for information.

question vs Interrogation

An 'interrogation' is more formal or refers to a school quiz/test.

question vs Problématique

A 'problématique' is a complex set of questions in an academic context.

Idioms & Expressions

"Il n'en est pas question"

— That is out of the question; no way. A very firm refusal.

Prêter ma voiture ? Il n'en est pas question !

Neutral/Informal

"Remettre en question"

— To challenge, to doubt, or to reconsider something established.

Cette découverte remet en question toute la théorie.

Neutral/Formal

"La question qui tue"

— The 'killer' question; a very difficult or embarrassing question.

Et là, il m'a posé la question qui tue sur mon salaire.

Informal

"C'est une question de vie ou de mort"

— It's a matter of life and death. Used for extremely urgent situations.

Dépêche-toi, c'est une question de vie ou de mort !

Neutral

"Mettre en question"

— Similar to 'remettre en question', but often used in a more accusatory way.

On ne peut pas mettre en question son honnêteté.

Neutral/Formal

"Une question de goût"

— A matter of taste. Used to say something is subjective.

Je n'aime pas ce tableau, c'est une question de goût.

Neutral

"La question brûlante"

— A burning question; a very topical or urgent issue.

La question brûlante de l'inflation préoccupe tout le monde.

Journalistic

"Être en question"

— To be at stake or to be the subject of discussion.

C'est votre avenir qui est en question ici.

Neutral/Formal

"Faire question"

— To be doubtful or problematic (less common than 'poser problème').

Sa sincérité peut faire question.

Formal

"Une question piège"

— A trick question.

Attention, c'est une question piège !

Neutral

Easily Confused

question vs Demander

English speakers say 'ask a question'.

In French, 'demander' is for requests (demander un café), while 'poser' is for questions (poser une question).

Je demande un service, mais je pose une question.

question vs Interroger

Both mean to ask questions.

'Interroger' is more formal or systematic (like a police officer or a teacher testing a student).

Le policier interroge le témoin.

question vs Sujet

Both can mean 'topic'.

'Sujet' is the general theme; 'question' is the specific point of inquiry or debate.

Le sujet est la musique, mais la question est son influence.

question vs Enquête

Both involve asking things.

An 'enquête' is a full investigation or a survey/poll.

L'enquête révèle des résultats surprenants.

question vs Doute

Questions often arise from doubt.

'Doute' is the feeling of uncertainty; 'question' is the expression of that uncertainty.

J'ai un doute, donc je pose une question.

Sentence Patterns

J'ai une [noun].

J'ai une question.

Est-ce que je peux poser une [noun] ?

Est-ce que je peux poser une question ?

Il est question de [verb/noun].

Il est question de partir demain.

Il n'en est pas [noun] !

Il n'en est pas question !

La [noun] est de savoir si...

La question est de savoir si c'est possible.

Remettre en [noun] [something].

Il remet en question mon autorité.

La [noun] se pose de...

La question se pose de son implication.

Traiter la [noun] de manière [adjective].

Il a traité la question de manière magistrale.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written French.

Common Mistakes

Demander une question → Poser une question
In French, you 'pose' a question, you don't 'ask' (demander) it. This is the most common error for English speakers.
Le question → La question
'Question' is a feminine noun. Words ending in '-ion' are almost always feminine in French.
Répondre la question → Répondre à la question
The verb 'répondre' requires the preposition 'à' when followed by an object like 'question'.
Une question de budget (meaning a request) → Une demande de budget
If you are asking for money, it's a 'demande'. If you are asking about the budget, it's a 'question'.
Il s'agit de la question (when meaning debate) → Il est question de...
While 'il s'agit de' is common, 'il est question de' is more specific for topics under discussion or debate.

Tips

Gender Rule

Remember that 'question' is feminine. Always use 'la' or 'une' with it. This is a common rule for words ending in '-ion' in French.

The Right Verb

Never use 'demander' with 'question'. Always use 'poser'. Think of 'posing' for a photo to help you remember.

Nasal Vowels

The 'on' at the end of 'question' is a nasal vowel. Don't pronounce the 'n' clearly; instead, let the sound go through your nose.

Politeness

In a formal setting, start with 'Puis-je vous poser une question ?' to be extra polite before asking your inquiry.

Strong Refusal

Use 'Hors de question !' when you want to give a firm 'No' to a suggestion. It's very effective and natural.

Academic Style

In essays, use 'la problématique' instead of 'la question' to sound more professional and sophisticated.

Context Clues

If you hear 'il est question de', listen for the topic that follows. It's a key phrase for identifying the main subject.

Intellectualism

Don't be afraid to ask questions in France; it's seen as a sign of engagement and critical thinking, which are highly valued.

Visual Link

Visualize a question mark wearing a pink dress (feminine) and sitting on a 'pose' (the verb poser).

Preposition 'à'

When answering, always say 'répondre à la question'. Don't forget the 'à'!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Question' as a 'Quest' for information. You 'pose' it like a statue for people to look at and answer.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant question mark (?) wearing a dress (to remember it's feminine) and sitting on a 'pose' (like a model posing).

Word Web

Poser Répondre Féminin Interrogation Sujet Problème Réflexion Débat

Challenge

Try to use 'poser une question' in a sentence today instead of 'demander'. Write it down three times to lock it in.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'quaestio', which means 'a seeking, inquiry, or judicial investigation.' It comes from the verb 'quaerere', meaning 'to seek or ask.'

Original meaning: In Latin, it primarily referred to a formal inquiry or a legal examination, often involving torture in ancient times.

Romance (Latin-based).

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking personal questions (age, salary, religion) in France, as it can be seen as intrusive.

English speakers often struggle with 'poser' vs 'demander' because in English we use 'ask' for both questions and requests.

Questions pour un champion (Famous TV game show) La Question by Henri Alleg (Influential book on the Algerian War) The philosophical 'Question de l'être' (Heidegger, though translated into French)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Education

Lever la main pour poser une question
Une question à choix multiples
Répondre à la question
Une question de cours

Business

La question du budget
Soulever une question importante
Une séance de questions-réponses
Traiter la question

Daily Life

J'ai une petite question
C'est une question de goût
Pas de question !
Une question bête

Politics/Media

La question d'actualité
Remettre en question une loi
La question sociale
Éluder la question

Legal

La question prioritaire de constitutionnalité
Une question préjudicielle
Soumettre à la question (historical)
La question de la preuve

Conversation Starters

"Puis-je vous poser une question sur votre travail ?"

"Quelle est la question la plus difficile qu'on vous ait posée ?"

"Avez-vous des questions sur le programme d'aujourd'hui ?"

"C'est une question de point de vue, n'est-ce pas ?"

"Si vous pouviez poser une question à une célébrité, laquelle serait-ce ?"

Journal Prompts

Écrivez sur une question que vous vous posez souvent sur l'avenir.

Quelle est la question la plus importante dans votre vie en ce moment ?

Décrivez une situation où vous avez dû remettre en question vos croyances.

Faites une liste de cinq questions que vous aimeriez poser à votre futur moi.

Pourquoi est-il important de toujours poser des questions selon vous ?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is feminine: 'la question'. Most French words ending in '-ion' are feminine. For example, 'la nation', 'la solution', 'la station'. Remembering this pattern will help you with many other words as well.

No, this is a common mistake for English speakers. You must say 'poser une question'. If you use 'demander', it sounds like you are asking for the question itself as an object, which doesn't make sense in most contexts. Always use 'poser'!

It means 'it is about' or 'the subject is'. It's a more formal way of introducing a topic. For example, 'Dans ce film, il est question de voyage' means 'In this movie, it's about travel'. It's very common in literature and news.

'Question' is the general word for any inquiry. 'Interrogation' is more formal and often refers to a school quiz or a formal questioning by the police. In a classroom, if a teacher says 'Il y a une interro', they mean there is a test.

You say 'Hors de question' or 'Il n'en est pas question'. Both are strong ways to say 'No way' or 'Absolutely not'. For example: 'Sortir par ce froid ? Hors de question !'

It is a 'trick question'. It's a question designed to make you make a mistake or to test if you are paying attention. You might hear this in school or during a job interview.

It is pronounced like 'tjɔ̃'. The 't' is clear, followed by a 'y' sound, and then a nasal 'o'. It does NOT sound like the English 'shun'. Practice the nasal 'on' sound to get it right.

It means 'to challenge' or 'to call into question'. It's used when you start to doubt something that was previously accepted. For example: 'Il a remis en question toute ma stratégie'.

Yes, it is 'questions'. You just add an 's' at the end. The pronunciation remains the same. For example: 'J'ai plusieurs questions à vous poser'.

It is the French term for 'FAQ' (Frequently Asked Questions). You will see this on almost every French website. It literally means 'Fair of questions'.