French Phrase
Salut, c'est qui ?
Meaning
A very informal way to ask “Who is it?” or “Who are you?” It’s typically used when you answer the phone, hear a knock, or see someone you don’t recognize in a casual setting.
When to use
Use this phrase with people you know well, in relaxed environments, or when you want to keep the tone light. In a formal context you would replace “Salut” with “Bonjour” and “c’est qui ?” with “Qui est‑ce ?”.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Salut,c'estqui?
Salut
An informal greeting equivalent to “hi” or “hey”. Use with friends, peers, or in casual settings.
c'est
Contraction of “ce est”. In identification questions it works like “it is”. It precedes the interrogative pronoun.
qui
Interrogative pronoun meaning “who”. Placed after “c’est” to ask for a person’s identity.
🗨In Conversation
Salut, c'est qui ?
Hey, who is this?
C'est Marie, ton amie de l'université.
It’s Marie, your university friend.
✕Common Mistakes
Bonjour, c’est qui ?
Using this in a formal setting sounds too casual; switch to “Qui est‑ce ?”
Salut, monsieur Dupont, c’est qui ?
“Salut” should not be used with strangers or elders; use “Bonjour” instead.
Salut, c’est qui ? (pointing at a book)
Do not use it to ask about objects; use “Qu’est‑ce que c’est ?” for “What is this?”
↔Alternatives
Qui est‑ce ?
Who is it?
C’est qui, au fait ?
Who is it, by the way?
C’est qui, exactement ?
Who exactly is it?
Cultural Tip
“Salut” is strictly informal; avoid it in business meetings, with elders, or in any situation that requires politeness. If you need a neutral greeting, use “Bonjour”. Likewise, “c’est qui ?” is colloquial; the more standard “Qui est‑ce ?” works in both casual and semi‑formal contexts.