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French Phrase

À quoi tu penses ?

/a kwa ty pɑ̃s/
Meaning"What are you thinking about?"
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Meaning

This phrase is a direct way to ask someone what is on their mind. It uses the preposition 'à' because the verb 'penser' requires it when referring to an object or idea. It is informal due to the use of 'tu' and the subject-verb word order.

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When to use

Use this in casual settings with friends, family, or partners when they seem preoccupied, quiet, or lost in thought. It is a common way to invite someone to share their feelings in the moment.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Àquoitupenses

1

À quoi

The preposition 'à' is required by the verb 'penser' and combines with the interrogative pronoun 'quoi' to start the question.

2

Penses

This is the present tense conjugation of the verb 'penser' for the subject 'tu', which always takes an -es ending in the first group.

🗨In Conversation

A

Tu as l'air pensif. À quoi tu penses ?

You look pensive. What are you thinking about?

Je pense à nos prochaines vacances.

I'm thinking about our next vacation.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Qu'est-ce que tu penses ?

    In French, 'penser à' is used for the object of thought; 'penser de' is for asking for an opinion. 'Qu'est-ce que' implies you are asking for an opinion.

  • À quoi penses-tu à ?

    Do not repeat the preposition at the end of the sentence; the 'à' already appears at the beginning.

↔Alternatives

  • À quoi penses-tu ?

    What are you thinking about? (Standard/Formal)

  • Tu penses à quoi ?

    You're thinking about what? (Very casual spoken French)

  • Qu'est-ce qui te trotte dans la tête ?

    What's running through your head? (Idiomatic)

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Cultural Tip

French speakers often use this phrase to break a silence or show empathy. While direct, it is considered polite and caring among close acquaintances, though in very formal situations, you should use 'À quoi pensez-vous ?'.