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French Phrase

Quels sont les autres frais initiaux ?

/kɛl sɔ̃ le z‿otʁ fʁɛ i.ni.sjo/
Meaning"What are the other initial fees?"
💡

Meaning

This phrase is used to inquire about any additional upfront costs or charges that might not have been immediately obvious or mentioned. It's a direct way to ask for a comprehensive list of all expenses required at the beginning of a transaction or service.

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When to use

You would typically use this phrase when discussing financial agreements, such as renting an apartment, purchasing a car, signing up for a new service, or enrolling in a program. It's essential for clarifying all potential costs before committing to an agreement.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Quelssontlesautresfraisinitiaux?

1

Quels sont

'Quels sont' is the plural form of 'What are'. 'Quels' is a masculine plural interrogative adjective that agrees with the noun it refers to ('frais' in this case).

2

les autres

'Les' is the definite article for plural nouns. 'Autres' means 'other' and is placed before the noun it modifies. Note the liaison between 'les' and 'autres' (le-z-autres).

3

frais initiaux

'Frais' means 'fees' or 'charges' and is always masculine plural in this context. 'Initiaux' means 'initial' and is the masculine plural form of 'initial', agreeing with 'frais'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Le loyer est de 800 euros par mois.

The rent is 800 euros per month.

D'accord. Quels sont les autres frais initiaux ?

Okay. What are the other initial fees?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Qu'est-ce que sont les autres frais initiaux?

    While 'Qu'est-ce que' is common for 'what', 'Quels sont' is the correct and more natural way to ask 'What are' when referring to plural nouns like 'frais'.

  • Quels sont les autres coûts initiaux?

    While 'coûts' (costs) is similar to 'frais' (fees), 'frais' is more commonly used for administrative or service charges, especially in a financial or contractual context.

↔Alternatives

  • Y a-t-il d'autres frais au départ ?

    Are there other fees at the start?

  • Quels sont les coûts de démarrage supplémentaires ?

    What are the additional start-up costs?

  • Quels sont les frais supplémentaires à prévoir ?

    What are the additional fees to anticipate?

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Cultural Tip

In French-speaking cultures, especially in business or contractual situations, it's common and expected to be direct and thorough when discussing financial matters. Asking precise questions about all fees, like 'Quels sont les autres frais initiaux?', is seen as prudent and responsible, not impolite. It ensures transparency and avoids misunderstandings later on.