ces — meaning in English: these

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secondes

samedi

ces

Robert

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'ces' when pointing out specific items or people in both spoken and written French. For instance, one might say 'Ces livres sont intéressants' when referring to books nearby or 'Ces amis sont formidables' when speaking about friends within a group.

Synonyms & nuances

'Ces' is similar to the word 'ces derniers', which means 'the latter'. While 'ces' simply refers to 'these,' 'ces derniers' is more specific, often used to contrast with 'ces premiers' (the former). Choose 'ces' when you want to indicate items or people directly in front of you.

Culture

'Ces' originates from the Latin word 'iste', which means 'that one'. This word reflects how French evolved from Latin, showcasing the transition to a more simplified structure. Interestingly, 'ces' can also indicate proximity, tying back to the French appreciation of nuance in their language.

FAQ

Q.What does 'ces' mean in English?

'Ces' translates to 'these' in English, referring to specific items or people that are close in distance or context.

Q.How do you use 'ces' in a sentence?

You can use 'ces' to specify plural nouns, such as in 'Ces pommes sont délicieuses' meaning 'These apples are delicious.' Remember, it must agree in number with the nouns it describes.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'ces'?

A common mistake is using 'ces' with singular nouns. 'Ces' is only for plural nouns. For singular, use 'ce' for masculine nouns and 'cette' for feminine nouns.

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