tu es très jolie
The English phrase "you're very pretty" is translated into French as tu es très jolie.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell a person that they are physically attractive.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase tu es très jolie is composed of tu es, which means "you are" (the singular, informal conjugation of the verb être) and très, which translates literally to "very".
Which one should you use?
You can also use Tu es vraiment très jolie to say "You're really very pretty" or Tu es vraiment belle to say "You're really beautiful". For a different nuance, Tu es ravissante means "You're delightful".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form tu es très jolie is specifically used when addressing a woman or girl. To say "you're very pretty" to a man, you must change the adjective to the masculine form tu es très joli.
Did you know?
- The word très has a surprising history as a 'doublet' of the English word 'trans', as both originate from the same Latin root meaning 'through' or 'across'.
- Complimenting a stranger's appearance in France is often handled with more reserve than in English-speaking cultures. Using tu es très jolie with someone you do not know can be perceived as overly forward or flirtatious.
- If you were to compliment a man using the masculine form joli, you should be careful, as it can sometimes imply he is 'pretty' in a way that suggests he is effeminate.
Examples in context
- Tu es très jolie.You're very pretty.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase tu es très jolie.Tatoeba #1223977 by sacredceltic, translation #863589 by Daga007
- Tu as toujours été belle, mais aujourd'hui tu es vraiment éblouissanteYou have always been beautiful, but today you are truly dazzling
- Tu es très jolie ce soir.You're very pretty tonight.
- Je pense que tu es très jolie.I think that you're very pretty.
Example conversation
Gabriel is complimenting Chloé on her new dress.
- ChloéJ'aime beaucoup ta robe.I really like your dress.
- GabrielMerci, c'est gentil.Thank you, that's kind.
- ChloéC'est vrai, tu es très jolie.It's true, you are very pretty.
- GabrielTu me fais rougir !You're making me blush!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries très, tu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
