Formal:
* Qu'est-ce que c'est ? (This is the most common and versatile option)
* De quoi s'agit-il ? (This is a more formal way to ask "what is it about?")
* Quelle est la nature de...? (This is used when asking for the nature or type of something)
Informal:
* C'est quoi ? (This is very informal, similar to "what's this?")
* C'est quoi ça ? (This is a more casual way to ask "what's that?")
You can also use "quelle" in a question if you are asking about a specific thing or quality:
* Quelle est la couleur de la robe ? (What is the color of the dress?)
* Quelle est votre opinion sur ce sujet ? (What is your opinion on this topic?)
Remember to choose the appropriate phrase based on the context and formality of the situation.