magnifique
/ma.ɲi.fik/
magnifique is the French word for magnificent.
While it can mean 'magnificent' in a grand sense, it is very commonly used in everyday French to mean 'wonderful' or 'great' when describing an experience, a meal or a piece of news.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective is invariable in gender but must agree in number with the noun it modifies, adding an 's' for plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and is pronounced /ma.ɲi.fik/.
Did you know?
- In certain contexts, saying C'est magnifique! can be used with heavy sarcasm to describe a disastrous situation, much like how an English speaker might say 'That's just wonderful'.
- The word magnifique is a linguistic relative of the English word 'magnate', as both derive from the Latin root for 'great'.
- In French, calling a person magnifique can be a high compliment regarding their physical appearance, whereas in English 'magnificent' is usually reserved for objects or scenery.
Examples in context
- Ce paysage est magnifique.This landscape is magnificent.
- Ton nouveau manteau est magnifique.Your new coat is magnificent.
- Le spectacle était vraiment magnifique.The show was truly magnificent.
Example conversation
Chloé and Lucas are at an art gallery.
- ChloéRegarde ce tableau, il est magnifique !Look at this painting, it is magnificent!
- LucasOui, les couleurs sont incroyables.Yes, the colors are incredible.
- ChloéTu trouves que l'artiste est un génie ?Do you think the artist is a genius?
- LucasAbsolument, c'est un travail magnifique.Absolutely, it is magnificent work.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry magnifique, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
