How to Say “It Was Very Good” in French: Formal and Informal Ways

Learning how to express your satisfaction in another language is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in a new culture. In French, there are several ways to say “it was very good,” each with its own level of formality and regional variations. In this guide, we will explore various expressions, provide helpful tips, and share plenty of examples to help you navigate the nuances of expressing your contentment in French.

Formal Expressions

If you want to convey a more sophisticated and formal tone, these phrases will help you express that “it was very good” in a polite and respectful manner:

1. C’était très bien – This is a straightforward and well-rounded expression that can be used in most contexts. It is a safe choice in formal and informal situations alike.
2. C’était fort bon – This expression carries a sense of distinguished satisfaction. It is often used in formal contexts when discussing high-end cuisine or artistic performances.
3. C’était excellent – This phrase emphasizes the exceptional quality of an experience or a meal. It is commonly used in formal settings and indicates a top-notch level of satisfaction.

Informal Expressions

On the other hand, if you want to express your contentment with a more casual and friendly tone, here are some phrases that will suit informal situations:

1. C’était super – This expression is widely used in everyday conversations among friends and peers. It conveys a sense of enthusiasm and excitement when something was very good.
2. C’était génial – This phrase is similar to “super” but carries a stronger connotation of amazement and astonishment. It is often used to describe extraordinary experiences or events.
3. C’était trop bien – This colloquial expression conveys a sense of overwhelming satisfaction. It is commonly used among younger speakers and in informal settings.

Regional Variations

While French is primarily spoken in France, it is also an official language in several other countries, each with its own unique expressions. Here are a few regional variations of how to say “it was very good” in different francophone areas:

In Canada (Quebec):
C’était ben (short for “bien”) bon – This is the Quebecois adaptation of “it was very good,” often used in casual conversations.

In Belgium:
C’était méchamment bon – This Belgian expression includes the adverb “méchamment” to emphasize the exceptional quality or taste of something very good.

Tips for Usage

To ensure you use these expressions correctly and effectively, here are some essential tips:

1. Be mindful of your audience: Choose the appropriate level of formality based on the situation, whether it’s a formal gathering or a casual conversation among friends.
2. Pay attention to intonation: The way you pronounce these expressions can influence their meaning. A cheerful and enthusiastic tone can convey a higher level of satisfaction, while a calm and composed tone will sound more formal.
3. Practice with native speakers: Engage in conversations with native French speakers to get a better understanding of the appropriate usage of these phrases and to improve your pronunciation.
4. Don’t rely solely on literal translations: Languages often have unique expressions that don’t directly translate word for word. Embrace the nuances and cultural aspects of the language to fully convey your satisfaction.

Examples

To give you a better idea of how to use these expressions in context, here are some examples:

• Formal examples:
  1. Le spectacle était très bien, tous les acteurs étaient excellents. (The show was very good, all the actors were excellent.)
  2. La présentation était fort bonne, vous avez bien expliqué tous les détails. (The presentation was very good, you explained all the details well.)
• Informal examples:
  1. Ce film était super, je l’ai vraiment adoré ! (This movie was super, I really loved it!)
  2. Le restaurant était génial, la nourriture était délicieuse et le service impeccable. (The restaurant was awesome, the food was delicious, and the service impeccable.)

Remember, whether you opt for a formal expression or a more casual one, expressing your satisfaction in French will undoubtedly enhance your language skills and help you connect with French speakers on a deeper level.

Practice using these phrases in various situations, and soon enough, you’ll be effortlessly expressing your contentment in French with grace and confidence!