How to Say "What" in Spanish: Qué vs Cuál Explained

"What" in Spanish isn't always "qué." Sometimes it's "cuál." The difference trips up learners, but here's the simple rule that clears it up.

The Basic Rule

• Qué = "what" when asking about identity, definition, or nature (what is it?)
• Cuál = "which/what" when choosing from options or asking for specifics (which one?)

Think of it this way: "qué" asks for explanation; "cuál" asks for selection.

When to Use Qué

Use "qué" when asking "what is..." or "what kind of...":

• ¿Qué es esto? — What is this?
• ¿Qué haces? — What are you doing?
• ¿Qué quieres? — What do you want?
• ¿Qué día es hoy? — What day is today?

When to Use Cuál

Use "cuál" when choosing among options or asking for specific information:

• ¿Cuál prefieres? — Which one do you prefer?
• ¿Cuál es tu nombre? — What's your name? (asking for the specific name)
• ¿Cuál es la capital? — What's the capital? (specific answer expected)
• ¿Cuáles son tus libros favoritos? — Which are your favorite books?

The Tricky Cases

With Nouns

When "what" is followed by a noun, use "qué":

• ¿Qué película quieres ver? — What movie do you want to see?
• ¿Qué idioma hablas? — What language do you speak?

But with "ser" + noun, "cuál" is often preferred:

• ¿Cuál es tu película favorita? — What's your favorite movie?

Quick Practice

1. Ask 3 questions using "qué" about definitions or actions.
2. Ask 3 questions using "cuál" about choices or specifics.
3. Practice the difference: "¿Qué haces?" vs "¿Cuál es tu trabajo?"

Common Mistakes

• Using "qué" for "cuál es tu nombre" → Say "¿Cuál es tu nombre?"
• Mixing them up with options → If choosing, use "cuál"

Learn It in Context

The best way to master "qué" vs "cuál" isn't memorizing rules—it's hearing them used in real conversations. Practice asking questions, get instant feedback on your choices, and learn when each feels natural. Try Parlai and ask away until it clicks.