A relative pronoun is used when you want to link two sentences that share a common element. Depending on the function that the pronoun has in the relative clause, either qui or que are used.

The Subject Pronoun qui:
 

Note that in English we make a distinction between a person ("who") and a thing ("that"). In French, qui is used for both cases. Note also, that normal agreement rules apply for qui: where qui replaces a feminine noun, all necessary agreements must be made (see the last example).

The Direct Object Pronoun que:
 

Note that in English we make a distinction between a person (whom) and a thing (that). In French que is used for both cases. Note also that English can drop the relative pronoun—in French it is always expressed.

Remember that when a direct object precedes the Past Participle, the Past Participle shows agreement with that direct object. This applies also to the relative pronoun que:
 

La maison is feminine. Que is referring back to la maison and is therefore a feminine direct object. The Past Participle achetée reflects agreement with the added –e.

Examples of Relative Pronouns

• C'est un jeune homme qui a brûlé un feu rouge.
• Ce sont les jeunes gens que vous avez vus?
• Regarde tous ces livres que j'ai achetés. J'adore les livres!