Tu es belle
feminine, direct
To a girl you say Tu es belle. The adjective takes a feminine ending, because beau becomes belle for a girl or woman. It is also called Tu es magnifique and Tu es très jolie.
Meaning: compliment about looks (adjective)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| Tu es belle | feminine, direct |
| Tu es magnifique | any gender |
| Tu es très jolie | feminine, gentle |
Which one should you use?
Belle is strong and direct. Jolie means "pretty" and is lighter, so Tu es très jolie is a safe, gentle compliment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine beau is for a boy, so Tu es beau is wrong for a girl. Magnifique and superbe do not change with gender.
How do you pronounce it?
Belle is pronounced "bel" with the final e silent.
Did you know?
- The feminine belle is the same word found in La Belle et la Bête, the French title of "Beauty and the Beast".
Examples in context
- Tu es belle aujourd'hui.You are beautiful today.
- Tu es vraiment magnifique.You are truly gorgeous.
- Quelle jolie robe !What a pretty dress!
Example conversation
Hugo greets his girlfriend Manon before a wedding in Annecy.
- HugoTu es belle, Manon.You are beautiful, Manon.
- ManonMerci, c'est gentil.Thank you, that is kind.
- HugoCette robe te va très bien.That dress suits you very well.
- ManonOn y va ?Shall we go?
