C'est logique
In French, 'that makes sense' can be expressed as C'est logique.
These phrases are used to indicate that something is logical, easy to understand or coherent.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase C'est logique literally translates to 'It is logical'.
Which one should you use?
While C'est logique is the standard way to say 'that makes sense', the colloquial expression Ça se tient is used to mean that an argument or story is coherent or 'holds water'. If you want to emphasize that a set of facts or a complex argument is consistent and lacks contradictions, you can use C'est cohérent.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying Ça fait sens. This is a common mistake made by English speakers who translate 'makes sense' literally. It is an anglicism and is considered incorrect in standard French.
Did you know?
- The expression Ça fait sens is widely used in Quebec, despite being considered an incorrect anglicism in standard France-French.
- The word logique is a learned borrowing from the Latin 'logica', which originally came from the Ancient Greek word for 'the art of reasoning'.
- In a debate, if you want to say an idea 'holds water', the French equivalent Ça se tient suggests the idea has enough structure to remain upright.
Examples in context
- C'est logique.That makes sense.
- Ah, c'est logique maintenant.Ah, that makes sense now.
- D'accord, c'est logique pour moi.Okay, that makes sense to me.
Example conversation
Chloé explains why the store is closed to Nathan.
- ChloéLe magasin est fermé pour les vacances.The store is closed for the holidays.
- NathanC'est logique, c'est le mois d'août.That makes sense, it is August.
- ChloéOui, tout le monde part en vacances.Yes, everyone goes on vacation.
- NathanOn reviendra donc la semaine prochaine.We will come back next week then.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries c'est, logique, CC BY-SA 4.0.
