c'était incroyable
The English phrase "it was amazing" is translated into French as c'était incroyable.
This phrase is used to describe a past experience or thing as being very impressive or surprising.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ce (it), était (was) and incroyable (incredible/unbelievable).
Which one should you use?
While c'était incroyable describes a state or atmosphere, ça a été incroyable (using the passé composé) emphasizes the event as a completed, specific occurrence. A common alternative to incroyable when expressing that something was wonderful or great is c'était génial.
Did you know?
- If you want to say something was 'amazing' in a more casual, modern way, you might say c'était ouf. This is 'fou' (crazy) flipped into 'verlan' slang.
- In Quebec, you might hear someone say c'était malade to mean something was amazing. While 'sick' is a negative descriptor in English, here it functions as high praise.
- Depending on the region, the word formidable is often used where an English speaker would say 'amazing', though it historically meant 'frightening'.
Examples in context
- C'était incroyable.It was amazing.This sentence is useful for stating that something was amazing using c'était incroyable.Tatoeba #1843158 by sacredceltic, translation #2248801 by CK
- La vue depuis le sommet de la tour était magnifique!The view from the top of the tower was amazing!
- La fête hier soir était trop cool!The party last night was amazing!
- Le concert de ce groupe était incroyablement génial!This band's concert was incredibly awesome!
- C'était incroyable de voir ce spectacle.It was amazing to see this show.
- Le voyage en Italie, c'était incroyable.The trip to Italy, it was amazing.
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are discussing a concert they attended last night.
- LéaTu as aimé le concert hier ?Did you like the concert yesterday?
- NathanOui, c'était incroyable !Yes, it was amazing!
- LéaJe suis contente que tu aies aimé.I am glad you liked it.
- NathanL'ambiance était vraiment spéciale.The atmosphere was truly special.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
