tu es jolie
In French, "you look pretty" is expressed as tu es jolie.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell someone that they are attractive. While English speakers often use the verb 'look' to describe appearance, French speakers typically use the verb 'to be' (être) to express this sentiment.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, tu es jolie means "you are pretty".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, the slang phrase t'es ben belle is used to mean "You look really beautiful" to a woman and t'es ben beau is used to mean "You look really handsome" to a man.
Did you know?
- The word joli can be used ironically in French to describe something that is actually quite ugly or a 'mess', similar to how 'nice' is used in English sarcasm.
- French has a specific adjective joli for 'pretty' that is closely related to the English word 'jolly', though their meanings diverged centuries ago.
- While tu es jolie is a direct compliment, saying it to a stranger in France can sometimes be perceived as overly forward or a 'pick-up line' rather than a polite observation.
Examples in context
- Tu es jolie.You look pretty.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase tu es jolie.Tatoeba #1085417 by sacredceltic, translation #2255044 by CK
- Madame, vous êtes magnifique ce soir.Ma'am, you look magnificent tonight.
- Vous êtes ravissante dans cette robe.You look ravishing in that dress.
- T'es super jolie avec cette tenue.You're really pretty in that outfit.
- Je pense que tu es jolie.I think you are pretty.
- Avec cette robe, tu es jolie.With this dress, you are pretty.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are getting ready for a party.
- ChloéJe suis prête pour la soirée.I am ready for the party.
- NathanWow, tu es jolie, Chloé !Wow, you look pretty, Chloé!
- ChloéMerci, c'est très gentil.Thank you, that is very kind.
- NathanOn peut y aller maintenant.We can go now.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
