De + Qui , A + Qui

Question

When translating a sentence into French is there a way to decide if I use a + qui of De + Qui etc. In some of the B2 questions I am not sure of the correct grammar. To me xx could be that, of whom, whom, about which etc.. Perhaps its just any of the above.

Ron Thomas · Answer

Bonjour Michael,
I believe that your answer lies in the context of exactly what is being said, i.e. to who(m) vs of which, (à qui vs de qui).
Bonne chance.

Laura K Lawless · Answer

Bonjour Michael,

It depends on which preposition, if any, is required with the verb or expression.

Je parle à un homme --> L'homme à qui je parle (I'm talking to a man, the man to whom I'm talking)

Je parle d'un homme --> L'homme de qui (or dont) je parle (I'm talking about a man, the man about whom I'm talking)

Michael Raymond · Answer

Thanks Laura and Ron. You have clarified this for me. At some level I guess it reflects my ability to use correct English grammar ;)