When it comes to learning a new language, expanding your vocabulary is crucial. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to discuss prices or express the idea of something being expensive in French, it’s important to know the correct words and phrases to use. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “expensive” in French, and provide tips and examples to help you master this vocabulary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Expensive” in French
In formal situations, such as business or official settings, it’s essential to use the appropriate language. Here are some formal ways to express the concept of “expensive” in French:
- Cher: This is the most common and direct translation for “expensive” in French. It can be used for both masculine and feminine nouns. For example: “Ce bijou est cher” (This piece of jewelry is expensive).
- Coûteux: This word also translates to “expensive” and is commonly used in a formal context. For instance: “Les vols vers cette destination sont coûteux” (The flights to this destination are expensive).
- Onerux: This word is more formal and emphasizes the high cost of an item or service. It is often used in legal or financial contexts. For example: “La réparation de la voiture était onéreuse” (The car repair was expensive).
Informal Ways to Say “Expensive” in French
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use more colloquial expressions to describe something as “expensive” in French. Here are some informal ways to express this:
- Chéro/chère: This is a relaxed way to say “expensive” and is often used in spoken French. It can be used for both masculine and feminine nouns. For example: “Je trouve ces chaussures chères” (I find these shoes expensive).
- Coûteux/coûteuse: Similar to its formal counterpart, “coûteux” can also be used in informal conversations. For instance: “Cette soirée en boîte était vraiment coûteuse” (That night out at the club was really expensive).
- Chiffré: This word is a more colloquial expression, often used to describe high-priced items or services. For example: “Les prix des billets d’avion sont vraiment chiffrés cette saison” (Airfare prices are really expensive this season).
Tips for Using “Expensive” in French
Here are some additional tips to help you effectively use the word “expensive” in French:
- Context Matters: Always consider the context in which you are using the word. Different situations may require different levels of formality.
- Practice Pronunciation: Listen to native French speakers pronounce these words, and practice saying them yourself. Pay attention to the accents and intonation.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Along with learning how to say “expensive,” it’s valuable to learn related words such as “cheap” (bon marché) and “affordable” (abordable) to express a wider range of prices and opinions.
- Use Proper Gender and Agreement: In French, adjectives must agree with the gender and number of the noun they describe. Ensure you use the appropriate masculine or feminine form when using these words.
Example Conversation:
Person A: As-tu vu le dernier modèle d’iPhone ? (Have you seen the latest iPhone model?)
Person B: Oui, il est très cher, je ne suis pas sûr de pouvoir me le permettre. (Yes, it’s very expensive, I’m not sure if I can afford it.)
By incorporating these tips and examples into your language learning practice, you will be better equipped to talk about prices and express the concept of “expensive” in French. Whether you’re engaging in formal or casual conversations, these phrases will help you navigate discussions about costs and prices effortlessly. Bonne chance!
