un grand
In French, "a big one" is said as un grand.
The phrase un grand is used to refer to an item that is large in size or scale. In this context, the adjective grand functions as a substantive, meaning it acts as a noun to represent "a big one" or "a large person" depending on context.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form un grand is used when the noun being referred to is masculine.
Did you know?
- While grand means 'big' or 'tall', the French use a different word, gros, to describe something 'big' in terms of girth, thickness or weight.
- While un grand describes size, if you use it to describe a person, it often implies they are a 'grown-up' or an adult rather than just someone with large physical dimensions.
- In certain French contexts, referring to someone as un grand can be a way of calling them a 'big shot' or a person of importance, rather than just someone of large stature.
Examples in context
- C'en est un grand.That's a big one.This sentence demonstrates how to identify a specific large item.Tatoeba #1741038 by sacredceltic, translation #1740906 by Spamster
- Ce n'était pas un grand magasin, si ?The store was not a big one, was it?This sentence uses the phrase to refer to a large store.Tatoeba #1589921 by sacredceltic, translation #44870 by CK
- Cherche un signe avec un grand "Un" dessus.Look for a sign with a big "one" on it.This sentence uses un grand to describe a large digit '1' on a sign.Tatoeba #463508 by sacredceltic, translation #371936 by saeb
- Mon frère a acheté un truc énorme pour sa collection de bandes dessinées.My brother bought a huge thing for his comic book collection.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are looking at suitcases in a store.
- NathanEst-ce que tu veux ce sac ?Do you want this bag?
- EmmaNon, je préfère un grand.No, I prefer a big one.
- NathanRegarde, il y en a un là-bas.Look, there is one over there.
- EmmaOui, c'est justement un grand.Yes, that is exactly a big one.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
