In French, there are several ways to express the idea of “no wonder.” Whether you want to convey surprise, admiration, or agreement, you can use different phrases and expressions.
In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “no wonder” in French, providing you with useful tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive in and expand your French vocabulary!
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Formal Expressions
When it comes to formal situations or polite conversations, you can use the following expressions to express “no wonder” in French:
“Ce n’est pas étonnant”
Literal Translation: “It is not surprising”
Example: French: Ce n’est pas étonnant qu’il ait réussi son examen avec de si bonnes notes.
Translation: “No wonder he passed his exam with such good grades.”
“Il est donc normal”
Literal Translation: “It is therefore normal”
Example: French: Il est donc normal que les touristes soient attirés par cette magnifique ville.
Translation: “No wonder tourists are attracted to this beautiful city.”
“Il n’est pas étonnant que”
Literal Translation: “It is not surprising that”
Example: French: Il n’est pas étonnant qu’elle ait reçu cette promotion avec son talent et son dévouement.
Translation: “No wonder she got that promotion with her talent and dedication.”
Informal Expressions
Informal conversations allow for more casual expressions. Here are some informal ways to say “no wonder” in French:
“Pas étonnant”
Literal Translation: “Not surprising”
Example: French: Pas étonnant qu’il soit toujours en retard, il ne se réveille jamais à l’heure.
Translation: “No wonder he’s always late; he never wakes up on time.”
“C’est normal”
Literal Translation: “It’s normal”
Example: French: C’est normal qu’ils mangent beaucoup de pain, ils sont français après tout.
Translation: “No wonder they eat a lot of bread; they’re French, after all.”
“Y a pas de quoi s’étonner”
Literal Translation: “There’s no need to be surprised”
Example: French: Y a pas de quoi s’étonner qu’il ait gagné ce match, il est un excellent joueur.
Translation: “No wonder he won this match; he’s an excellent player.”
Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions, and subtle differences exist in how people express “no wonder.” Here are a couple of regional variations:
Québec:
Québec French speakers often use the expression:
“C’est pas étonnant pentoute!”
Literal Translation: “It’s not surprising at all!”
Example: French: C’est pas étonnant pentoute qu’il fasse si froid aujourd’hui, on est en hiver!
Translation: “No wonder it’s so cold today; it’s winter!”
Belgium:
In Belgium, people may say:
“C’est pas étonnant du tout!”
Literal Translation: “It’s not surprising at all!”
Example: French: C’est pas étonnant du tout qu’il ait réussi cet exploit, il est très doué dans son domaine.
Translation: “No wonder he achieved this feat; he’s very talented in his field.”
Summary
In conclusion, expressing “no wonder” in French can be done in formal and informal ways, adapting to the level of politeness required in the given situation. Remember these key phrases:
- “Ce n’est pas étonnant” – Formal
- “Il est donc normal” – Formal
- “Il n’est pas étonnant que” – Formal
- “Pas étonnant” – Informal
- “C’est normal” – Informal
- “Y a pas de quoi s’étonner” – Informal
Additionally, there are regional variations like “C’est pas étonnant pentoute” in Québec and “C’est pas étonnant du tout” in Belgium.
By adding these expressions to your French vocabulary, you’ll be able to express surprise, admiration, or agreement, while connecting with native speakers in a warm and engaging manner.
