bonne idée
The English phrase "good idea" is translated into French as bonne idée.
You can use bonne idée to show agreement with a suggestion or to praise a plan. If you want to use the phrase alone as an exclamation to express agreement, much like saying "Good idea!" in English, you can simply say Bonne idée !
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase bonne idée, the adjective bonne (good) precedes the noun idée (idea). Because idée is a feminine noun, you must use the feminine indefinite article une when saying une bonne idée (a good idea) instead of the masculine un.
Did you know?
- While bonne idée is standard, the phrase Pas bête ! (literally 'not stupid') is a very common idiomatic way to tell someone they have a good idea.
- The French expression avoir une idée derrière la tête means to have a hidden motive or a secret plan, rather than just a 'good idea'.
- French speakers often use the phrase C'est une idée ! as a sarcastic way to suggest a plan is actually quite poor or unrealistic.
Examples in context
- J'ai une bonne idée.I've got a good idea.This sentence is useful for saying I've got a good idea using bonne idée.Tatoeba #1315057 by sacredceltic, translation #66724 by CK
- C'est une bonne idée.That is a good idea.This sentence is useful for saying That is a good idea using bonne idée.Tatoeba #12407 by hirymnak, translation #42034 by CK
- C’est une bonne idée !That's a good idea!Tatoeba #3385 by zmoo, translation #1568 by CK
- C'est une excellente idée.That is an excellent idea.
- 255 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing what to do on a Saturday afternoon.
- LucasOn va au cinéma ?Shall we go to the cinema?
- ManonBonne idée, Lucas !Good idea, Lucas!
- LucasOn regarde un film d'action ?Shall we watch an action movie?
- ManonOui, c'est une bonne idée.Yes, it is a good idea.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
