nous sommes
The English phrase "we are" is translated into French as nous sommes.
The phrase is used to express the first-person plural present tense of the verb "to be".
Which one should you use?
While nous sommes is the standard translation, on est is much more common in everyday spoken French.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase nous sommes, the pronoun nous serves as the subject and sommes is the conjugated form of the verb être (to be) that follows it. Note that when using the informal on est, the phrase typically uses the singular form of the verb.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Nous sommes les 99%.We are the 99%.This sentence is useful for identifying a specific group.Tatoeba #9663601 by Rovo, translation #9662999 by DJ_Saidez
- Nous sommes bons amis.We are good friends.This sentence is useful for describing a relationship.Tatoeba #504064 by sacredceltic, translation #249493 by CK
- Nous sommes en retard.We are late.This sentence is useful for stating a status regarding time.Tatoeba #780903 by sacredceltic, translation #819857 by CC
- Nous sommes ravis de vous accueillir ici aujourd'hui.We are delighted to welcome you here today.
- Nous nous trouvons dans une réunion importante.We are in an important meeting.
- On est prêt à partir ensemble.We are ready to leave together.
- Nous, on est une équipe soudée.We are a close-knit team.
- On est prêts à partir tout de suite.We are ready to leave right away.
- 441 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel and Emma are arriving at a restaurant together.
- GabrielBonjour, nous sommes deux personnes.Hello, we are two people.
- EmmaParfait, suivez-moi s'il vous plaît.Perfect, follow me please.
- GabrielMerci, nous sommes très affamés !Thank you, we are very hungry!
- EmmaJe vous installe tout de suite.I will seat you right away.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nous, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
