c'est vrai ?
The English phrase "is that so" can be translated into French as c'est vrai ?
Meaning: really? (phrase)
Which one should you use?
While c'est vrai ? is a standard way to ask if something is true, other informal options exist. You can use Ah bon? to express mild surprise or curiosity, or Vraiment? to express mild surprise or doubt among friends.
Did you know?
- The word vrai is the opposite of faux, which is the same root used in English for 'faux pas', meaning a social mistake or 'false step'.
- The word vrai can be used in the expression en vrai, which is a popular modern slang term used by young people to mean 'in real life' or 'actually'.
- In certain French dialects, particularly in Quebec, c'est vrai is often used as an emphatic agreement similar to 'that's for sure' rather than just a question.
Examples in context
- J'ai acheté une nouvelle maison. Vraiment?I bought a new house. Is that so?
- Notre entreprise a remporté le contrat. C'est vrai?Our company won the contract. Is that so?
- Je pars en vacances à Paris demain. Ah bon?I'm going on vacation to Paris tomorrow. Is that so/Really?
- Je viens de voir une voiture voler dans le ciel. Vraiment?I just saw a car flying in the sky. Is that so?/Really?
- Ah, c'est vrai ?Oh, is that so?
- Tu en es sûr, c'est vrai ?Are you sure, is it true?
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are talking about a new restaurant opening.
- NathanUn nouveau restaurant ouvre demain.A new restaurant is opening tomorrow.
- ChloéC'est vrai ?Is that so?
- NathanOui, il paraît que c'est très bon.Yes, it seems to be very good.
- ChloéAlors, on ira tester ça.Then, we will go test it.
