If you want to express your appreciation for something in French, it’s important to know how to say “this is good.” In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of conveying this sentiment, while also providing tips and examples to enhance your language skills. So, let’s get started!
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Formal Expressions for “This is Good” in French
1. “C’est bon”
The most straightforward and formal way to say “this is good” in French is “C’est bon.” This expression can be used in a variety of situations to express approval. It’s simple, versatile, and universally understood. For instance, you can use it to describe your appreciation for food, art, or any other subject.
2. “C’est excellent”
If you want to express a higher level of satisfaction, the word “excellent” can be incorporated into your phrase. For instance, you can say “C’est excellent” to convey the idea of something being exceptionally good. This expression is especially effective when describing a meal, a performance, or a work of art.
3. “C’est très bon”
To emphasize the goodness of something, you can add “très” (meaning “very”) before “bon.” This enhances the positive sentiment and indicates a high level of appreciation. For instance, if you taste a delicious dish and you want to express your satisfaction formally, you could say “C’est très bon” (This is very good).
Informal Expressions for “This is Good” in French
1. “C’est cool”
When speaking informally, “C’est cool” can be used to express approval or say “this is good.” It is a widely used expression among younger generations and is appropriate for casual situations. For example, you can employ it to describe a cool movie, an exciting event, or even a stylish outfit.
2. “C’est génial”
Another way to say “this is good” is by using the word “génial,” which translates to “great” in English. This expression conveys a sense of enthusiasm and is often used by French speakers to show excitement and satisfaction. For instance, if you experience something amazing, you can say “C’est génial!”
3. “C’est super”
If you want to express a slightly less intense form of approval in an informal context, “C’est super” is a great phrase to use. It can be translated as “it’s great” in English. This expression is commonly used to describe various things, such as a new restaurant, a fun party, or even a good suggestion from a friend.
Tips and Examples
1. Watch intonation
When expressing approval in French, pay attention to your intonation. A rising intonation at the end of a sentence can turn a statement into a question. To avoid confusion, focus on proper pronunciation and maintain a neutral or descending intonation when confirming that something is good.
2. Adapting vocabulary for different situations
Depending on the context, you may want to adapt your vocabulary to better convey your appreciation. For instance, when talking about food, you can use specific words such as “délicieux” (delicious), “succulent” (succulent), or “savoureux” (tasty). Similarly, when discussing art, you might consider words like “magnifique” (magnificent) or “superbe” (superb).
3. Combine expressions for more nuance
To demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and enthusiasm, try combining different expressions. For example, you can say “C’est excellent, vraiment bon,” which means “It’s excellent, really good.” This adds depth to your approval and provides a more nuanced perspective.
“C’est super bon ce gâteau ! Je le recommande vivement.” (This cake is super delicious! I highly recommend it.)
4. Be aware of regional variations
While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout the French-speaking world, it’s worth noting that regional variations exist. Different regions may have specific phrases or slang to convey the idea of “this is good.” However, for general usage, the expressions provided will serve you well in most situations.
Now that you have learned formal and informal ways to say “this is good” in French, take some time to practice and incorporate these phrases into your conversations. Remember to adapt the vocabulary to different situations and enjoy exploring the rich depths of the French language!
