il fait frais
The English phrase "the weather is cool" is translated into French as il fait frais.
This phrase describes a temperature that is pleasantly low or slightly cold.
Which one should you use?
While il fait frais describes a temperature that is pleasantly low, you should use il fait froid if the temperature is actually cold and potentially uncomfortable.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase il fait frais is an impersonal construction. It uses the third-person singular il, which does not refer to a specific person but instead refers to the environment or the weather.
Did you know?
- The word frais can also mean 'costs' or 'expenses' in a completely different context. For example, les frais de port refers to shipping costs.
- The word frais shares a common ancestor with the English word 'fresh', meaning both original terms implied a sense of being new or invigorating.
- Unlike English, which uses the verb 'to be', French expresses the weather using the verb faire, meaning 'to make' or 'to do'.
Examples in context
- Madame, il fait frais ce matin.Madam, it is cool this morning.
- Il fait frais ce matin, n'est-ce pas ?It is cool this morning, isn't it?
- Il fait frais ce matin.It is cool this morning.
- Prends une veste, il fait frais dehors.Take a jacket, it is cool outside.
- On sent qu'il fait frais ici.We can feel that it is cool in here.
Example conversation
A couple is preparing to go for a walk in the park.
- HugoRegarde le ciel, il fait frais aujourd'hui.Look at the sky, it is cool today.
- EmmaOui, l'air est très agréable.Yes, the air is very pleasant.
- HugoTu veux que j'apporte un pull pour toi ?Do you want me to bring a sweater for you?
- EmmaNon merci, ça va pour moi.No thanks, I am fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fait, frais, il, CC BY-SA 4.0.
