French Phrase
C'est quoi ton plat préféré ?
Meaning
This phrase is a common, informal way to ask someone about their favorite food or meal. It uses the structure 'C'est quoi' (It is what), which is characteristic of spoken French and sounds more natural than formal grammatical constructions. The word 'plat' specifically refers to a prepared dish or course rather than food in its general sense.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings with friends, family, or colleagues when discussing food preferences. It is a perfect conversation starter for dinner parties or when planning a meal together.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estquoitonplatpréféré
C'est quoi
An informal but extremely common way to formulate a question meaning 'What is' in spoken French.
Ton
The informal masculine singular possessive adjective for 'your'.
Préféré
An adjective meaning 'favorite'; it follows the noun it modifies and must agree in gender and number.
🗨In Conversation
C'est quoi ton plat préféré ?
What is your favorite dish?
J'adore le confit de canard, c'est délicieux !
I love duck confit, it's delicious!
✕Common Mistakes
Qu'est-ce que est ton plat préféré ?
Avoid combining 'Qu'est-ce que' directly with the verb 'être'; use 'Quel est' or the informal 'C'est quoi'.
C'est quoi ta plat préféré ?
'Plat' is a masculine noun, so you must use the masculine possessive adjective 'ton'.
↔Alternatives
Quel est ton plat préféré ?
What is your favorite dish? (More formal)
Tu aimes manger quoi ?
What do you like to eat?
C'est quoi ton repas favori ?
What is your favorite meal?
Cultural Tip
In France, gastronomy is a point of national pride and a frequent topic of conversation. Asking about a 'plat' often invites a detailed description of regional specialties or family recipes, as food is deeply tied to identity and social gathering.