SpeeekDownload on the App Store
Back to Talk About Me

French Phrase

Qu'est-ce qui compte le plus pour toi dans la vie ?

/kɛs.ki kɔ̃t lə ply puʁ twa dɑ̃ la vi/
Meaning"What matters most to you in life?"
💡

Meaning

This is a profound question used to ask someone about their core values and priorities. It combines the interrogative 'Qu'est-ce qui' (what) as a subject with the verb 'compter' (to count/matter) to explore personal philosophy.

🎯

When to use

This phrase is best reserved for deep, meaningful conversations with friends, family, or partners. It is ideal for bonding or when discussing future plans and motivations.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Qu'est-ce quicomptele pluspour toidans la vie

1

Qu'est-ce qui

This phrase means 'what' when it serves as the subject of the following verb.

2

Compter

While it can mean 'to count' numbers, in this context it means 'to matter' or 'to be important'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Qu'est-ce qui compte le plus pour toi dans la vie ?

What matters most to you in life?

Pour moi, c'est d'être heureux avec ma famille.

For me, it is to be happy with my family.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Qu'est-ce que compte le plus ?

    Use 'qui' because it acts as the subject of the verb 'compte'.

  • Qu'est-ce qui compte le plus pour tu ?

    Use the stressed pronoun 'toi' after the preposition 'pour'.

↔Alternatives

  • Qu'est-ce qui est important pour toi ?

    What is important to you?

  • C'est quoi ta priorité ?

    What is your priority? (Informal)

fr

Cultural Tip

French social culture often values deep, intellectual discussions over light small talk. Asking about life values is a common way to build a real connection, though it should still be timed appropriately during a serious conversation.