Q

French consonant

The letter Q, which always has to be followed by U,* is usually pronounced like K or the hard French C. Phonetic symbol: [k].

the letter k
quand when
qui who
une piqûre bite, sting

However, there are a few words in which Q is pronounced "kw" like in English.

l’équateur equator
une aquarelle watercolor painting

* Except at the end of a word: cinq (five), le coq (rooster).

 Related lessons

Learn Spanish En español

Learn Italian In italiano

 Share / Tweet / Pin Me!

French pronunciation

Questions about French?

 Ask me in the comments section below or visit the Progress with Lawless French Q+A forum to get help from native French speakers and fellow learners.
 

More Lawless French

 Subscribe to my twice-weekly newsletter.
      

Support Lawless French

  This free website is created with love and a great deal of work.

If you love it, please consider making a one-time or monthly donation.

Your support is entirely optional but tremendously appreciated.