French Phrase
Qu'est-ce que tu espères accomplir ?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask someone about their goals, intentions, or desired outcomes in a specific situation. It combines the interrogative structure 'qu'est-ce que' with the verb 'espérer' (to hope) and the infinitive 'accomplir' (to accomplish). It suggests a level of ambition or forward-thinking.
When to use
This is commonly used in professional settings, such as job interviews or performance reviews, as well as in personal conversations about future plans. Use it when you want to understand the 'why' behind someone's actions or their ultimate objective.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Qu'est-ce quetuespèresaccomplir
Qu'est-ce que
This is a fixed expression used to ask 'what' when it is the object of the sentence.
Espérer
A regular -er verb meaning 'to hope'. In this context, it acts as a semi-auxiliary verb followed by an infinitive.
Accomplir
A second-group (-ir) verb. Note that it doesn't require a preposition between it and the preceding verb 'espérer'.
🗨In Conversation
Je vais m'inscrire à ce nouveau cours de gestion.
I'm going to enroll in this new management course.
C'est une bonne idée. Qu'est-ce que tu espères accomplir ?
That's a good idea. What do you hope to accomplish?
✕Common Mistakes
Qu'est-ce que tu espères d'accomplir ?
The verb 'espérer' is followed directly by an infinitive without the preposition 'de'.
Quoi est-ce que tu espères accomplir ?
When 'what' is the object at the start of a question using 'est-ce que', use 'Qu'est-ce que' instead of 'Quoi'.
↔Alternatives
Quels sont tes objectifs ?
What are your goals?
Que veux-tu réaliser ?
What do you want to achieve?
Cultural Tip
In French culture, discussing personal 'accomplishments' can sometimes feel slightly more formal or serious than in English. In a casual setting with friends, you might simply ask 'Tu veux faire quoi ?' (What do you want to do?), whereas 'accomplir' carries a weight of achievement and long-term success.