A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "What brings you here" in French
A polite way to ask someone why they are visiting or present in a certain place.
Qu'est-ce qui vous amène ?
kes-kee vooz ah-MENneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when you encounter someone in a place they might not usually be, or when you want to know the reason for their visit to your home or business. It's a polite way to show interest and open a conversation.
Alternatives
- Qu'est-ce qui t'amène ?Use this when speaking to someone you know well and use 'tu' with.
- Que faites-vous ici ?This is a bit more direct, implying surprise or slight suspicion about their presence.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'amène' like 'amen'
The final 'e' in 'amène' is pronounced, and the 'n' is nasalized, unlike the English word 'amen'.
Forgetting the 'qui'
Simply saying 'Qu'est-ce vous amène ?' is grammatically incorrect; the 'qui' is essential here.
A small cultural note
While polite, this question can sometimes feel a bit formal or even slightly interrogative depending on the tone and context. A simple 'Bonjour !' might be preferred in very casual encounters.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
When should I use 'vous' vs 'tu' with this phrase?
Use 'vous' with strangers, elders, or in formal/professional settings. Use 'tu' with friends, family, or children you know well.
Is this phrase like 'What's up?'
No, it's more specific. It asks for the reason for someone's presence, not just a general greeting.
Can I use this in a shop?
Yes, a shopkeeper might use 'Qu'est-ce qui vous amène ?' to welcome a customer and inquire about their needs.
