quelque chose est mieux
The English phrase 'something is better' is expressed in French as quelque chose est mieux.
This phrase is used to state that one option or situation is more desirable than another.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Canada, the expression C'est meilleur en masse! is used to mean 'It's way better!'
How does it change in a sentence?
When using quelque chose as a noun phrase followed by an adjective to mean 'something [adjective]', you must insert the preposition de before the adjective, such as in the phrase quelque chose de mieux.
Did you know?
- The word chose is a linguistic relative of the English word 'cause'. Both words trace their ancestry back to the Latin 'causa', though they evolved into different forms in French and English.
- While mieux means 'better', French speakers distinguish between mieux for general quality and meilleur for superiority. Using mieux where meilleur is required is a common mistake for students.
Examples in context
- La nouvelle version du logiciel est meilleure que l'ancienne.The new version of the software is better than the old one.
- Ce film est vraiment meilleur que le précédent!This movie is really better than the previous one!
- Ces frites sont bien meilleures en Belgique!These fries are way better in Belgium!
Example conversation
Emma and Gabriel are choosing a gift for a friend.
- EmmaCe livre est parfait pour lui.This book is perfect for him.
- GabrielJe ne sais pas, quelque chose est mieux.I don't know, something is better.
- EmmaQu'est-ce que tu proposes alors ?What do you suggest then?
- GabrielRegarde ce jeu de société !Look at this board game!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chose, est, mieux, quelque, CC BY-SA 4.0.
