Indefinite Pronouns in French
In French, quelqu’un (someone) and quelque chose (something) are indefinite pronouns used to talk about people or things in a nonspecific way. They are used to express the existence of an entity without specifying its exact identity or nature.Usage of Quelqu’un
Quelqu’un refers to an unidentified or unspecified person. It is often used in contexts where the identity of the person is unknown, undetermined, or considered not essential to the understanding of the statement.
- Je dois parler à quelqu’un de compétent. (I need to speak to someone competent.)
- Quelqu’un a oublié son sac ici. (Someone has left their bag here.)
- - Il y a quelqu’un à la porte ?
- Non, il n'y a personne. (- Is there someone at the door?
- No, there isn't anyone.)
Usage of Quelque chose
Quelque chose refers to an unspecified object, idea, or situation. This pronoun is used when the exact nature of what is being discussed is not defined or does not need to be specified.
- Tu veux quelque chose à boire ? (Do you want something to drink?)
- J'ai entendu quelque chose de bruyant. (I heard something loud.)
- -Tu vois quelque chose ?
- Non, je ne vois rien. (- Do you see something?
- No, I don't see anything.)
Other Examples
- Quelqu’un sonne à la porte. (Someone is ringing at the door.)
- Je cherche quelque chose dans mon sac. (I am looking for something in my bag.)
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