Welcome to our guide on how to express the concept of “very stylish” in French. In this article, we will cover both formal and informal ways to convey this meaning, focusing on standard French with the occasional mention of regional variations. We’ll provide you with tips, examples, and explanations to ensure you can confidently express “very stylish” in diverse situations. So, let’s jump right in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Very Stylish”
If you want to refer to someone or something as “very stylish” in a formal context, you’ll have several options to choose from. The following phrases are appropriate for formal situations, such as using them in business settings or when speaking with individuals you don’t know well.
- Très élégant(e) – This expression is a direct translation of “very stylish” and can be used to describe a person or an object. For instance, you could say “Cette robe est très élégante” (This dress is very stylish).
- Très chic – This term is widely used in the French language to convey a sense of style and elegance. It can be employed to describe both people and objects. For example, you might say “Il a un style très chic” (He has a very stylish look).
- Très raffiné(e) – “Très raffiné(e)” is a fitting choice when you want to emphasize the refined nature of someone or something in terms of style. Use it, for instance, to say “Ce salon est décoré de façon très raffinée” (This living room is decorated in a very stylish manner).
- Extrêmement à la mode – This phrase emphasizes that something is extremely fashionable. It can be used to describe trendy outfits or the latest fashion trends. For instance, you could say “Les vêtements de cette collection sont extrêmement à la mode” (The clothes from this collection are extremely stylish).
Informal Ways to Say “Very Stylish”
When in an informal context, whether chatting with friends or family, you have a variety of expressions at your disposal to convey the idea of “very stylish.” These phrases are less formal but still commonly used in everyday conversations.
- Vachement stylé(e) – The word “vachement” is an informal intensifier that can be roughly translated as “really” or “very.” Combined with “stylé(e),” it communicates a strong sense of style. For example, you could say “Ce gars est vachement stylé” (This guy is very stylish).
- Trop classe – “Trop classe” is a popular colloquial expression among French speakers to convey a high level of style. It can be literally translated as “too classy.” For instance, you might say “La tenue qu’elle porte est vraiment trop classe” (The outfit she’s wearing is really stylish).
- Carrément branché(e) – “Carrément” is an informal term meaning “totally” or “completely,” often used to emphasize something. When paired with “branché(e),” it conveys being stylish in a contemporary and trendy manner. Use it, for example, to say “Cette soirée était carrément branchée” (That party was totally stylish).
- Hyper stylé(e) – Similar to “vachement stylé(e),” the word “hyper” is an informal intensifier meaning “super” or “extremely.” Combining it with “stylé(e)” emphasizes a high level of stylishness. For instance, you might say “Ce look est hyper stylé” (This look is extremely stylish).
Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions around the world, and while there may be nuances in vocabulary, the phrases mentioned earlier are generally understood and used uniformly. However, there are some regional variations worth noting:
Belgium and Switzerland: In these regions, you may come across the phrase “très classe” as a formal way of saying “very stylish.” Additionally, “hyper classe” is an informal alternative to “hyper stylé(e).”
Québec: If you’re in Québec, Canada, you might hear the informal expression “très fly” to mean “very stylish.” This term has gained popularity amongst the younger generation.
Quick Tips:
When using these phrases, pay attention to gender agreement. If you are referring to a masculine subject, use “stylé” or “élégant,” whereas for a feminine subject, use “stylée” or “élégante.”
To further enhance your understanding, here are a few more examples:
- “Est-ce que tu trouves cette chemise très élégante?” (Do you find this shirt very stylish?)
- “Je dois dire que tu es vraiment vachement stylé(e).” (I must say, you are really very stylish).
- “Sa nouvelle coupe de cheveux est trop classe!” (His/Her new haircut is so stylish!)
- “Les chaussures qu’elle porte sont extrêmement à la mode.” (The shoes she’s wearing are extremely fashionable).
Take note of these phrases and use them in various situations to improve your French vocabulary and express the concept of “very stylish” accurately.
Remember to adapt your choice of formal or informal expressions based on the context and your relationship with the person you’re talking to. Expressing yourself with confidence, while being sensitive to the situation, will help you fit right in.
We hope this guide has been helpful and that you feel ready to express the concept of “very stylish” in French. Practice these phrases, enjoy conversations, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of French fashion and style!
