c'est vrai
In French, 'it is true' is translated as c'est vrai.
The phrase c'est vrai is used to confirm that a statement is accurate or factual. You can use it as a standalone sentence to agree with something someone else has said, or as an introductory clause to lead into a statement.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ce (it/this), est (is) and vrai (true).
Which one should you use?
While c'est vrai is used to confirm a fact, using it as a question, c'est vrai?, changes the meaning to express surprise or disbelief, similar to saying 'Really?' in English.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, you may encounter the informal expression C'est ben vrai ça during conversations.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the negative, 'it is not true', use ce n'est pas vrai.
Did you know?
- While c'est vrai confirms a fact, it can also be used as a conversational filler to acknowledge that you have understood the logic of a point, even if you do not fully agree.
- In French, the concept of truth is often contrasted with le faux, which refers to everything that is false or fake, including counterfeit money.
- The word vrai shares an ancestral root with the English word 'veracity', which describes the quality of being truthful.
Examples in context
- En fait, c'est vrai.As a matter of fact, it is true.This sentence shows how to use c'est vrai with 'as a matter of fact'.Tatoeba #128232 by Julien_PDC, translation #265089 by CM
- C'est vrai, en un sens.It is true in a sense.This sentence shows how to use c'est vrai to say something is true 'in a sense'.Tatoeba #12323 by sak_sm, translation #42796 by Zifre
- En un sens, c'est vrai.In a sense, it is true.This sentence shows another way to say something is true 'in a sense' using the phrase c'est vrai.Tatoeba #852708 by U2FS, translation #67269 by CC
- Les affirmations du rapport sont vraies.The statements in the report are true.
- Il est vrai qu'il pleut aujourd'hui.It is true that it is raining today.
- Vous avez raison, cela est correct.You are right, that is correct.
- C'est vrai, j'ai entendu la même chose.It is true, I heard the same thing.
- 20 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a news report.
- ManonTu as entendu la nouvelle ?Did you hear the news?
- LucasOui, c'est vrai, le magasin ferme demain.Yes, it is true, the store is closing tomorrow.
- ManonC'est vraiment dommage.That is a real shame.
- LucasJe suis d'accord avec toi.I agree with you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries c'est, vrai, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
