tout va bien
The English phrase "all is well" is translated into French as tout va bien.
Tout va bien is used to state that everything is in a satisfactory state, going according to plan or that everything is fine and okay. It can describe a general situation or be used as a response to a person's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "everything goes well".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the verb aller (to go) in the third-person singular to describe a state of being or progress. Unlike English, which uses the verb "to be" (is), French uses aller (goes) to express how things are progressing or how one is doing.
When do people say it?
When someone asks Comment ça va? (How is it going?), Tout va bien is a common way to respond.
Did you know?
- The phrase can be used with a specific sarcastic tone or a shrug to actually signal a state of chaotic resignation, similar to the English 'everything is just great'.
- The word va comes from the Latin verb 'vadere', which is also the root of the English word 'evade'.
- In casual conversation, the longer phrase tout va bien is often condensed into just two words, ça va, which can function as a question, a statement, and an answer simultaneously.
Examples in context
- Maintenant tout va bien.Now all is well.This sentence shows how to use tout va bien to describe a current state.Tatoeba #7018333 by Rockaround, translation #7022177 by shekitten
- Tout va bien.All is well.This is a simple way to state that all is well.Tatoeba #9336 by sacredceltic, translation #322610 by CM
- Tout va bien pour moi.All is well with me.This sentence shows how to use tout va bien to refer to oneself.Tatoeba #1184668 by rene1596, translation #250065 by CM
Example conversation
Gabriel is checking on Emma's progress with a new project.
- EmmaGabriel, est-ce que tu as des nouvelles de mon projet ?Gabriel, do you have any news about my project?
- GabrielOui Emma, rassure-toi, tout va bien.Yes Emma, rest assured, everything is going well.
- EmmaC'est un grand soulagement pour moi.That is a great relief for me.
- GabrielIl n'y a aucun problème pour l'instant.There are no problems for the moment.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bien, tout, va, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
