How to use c'est vs il est with examples
The difference between “c’est” and “il est” in French mainly depends on what follows the expression and the context:
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Use “c’est” (ce + est) to introduce or present someone or something, usually followed by a noun with a determiner, a proper noun, or an adjective describing a general concept. For example:
- C’est mon vélo. (This is my bicycle.)
- C’est un ami. (He/She is a friend.)
- C’est bon. (This is good.)
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Use “il est” (or “elle est”) to describe someone or something with a specific attribute, usually followed by an adjective. For example:
- Il est rouge. (It is red.)
- Elle est intelligente. (She is intelligent.)
- Il est tard. (It is late.)
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“Il est” is also used to give the time:
- Il est deux heures. (It is two o’clock.)
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When talking about professions, nationalities, or religions, both can be used but in slightly different structures:
- C’est un ingénieur brillant. (He is a brilliant engineer.)
- Il est ingénieur. (He is an engineer.)
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Plural form for “c’est” is “ce sont” when referring to multiple things or people:
- Ce sont mes livres. (These are my books.)
Here are some side-by-side examples for clarity:
| Phrase | Explanation |
|---|---|
| C’est mon ami Pierre. | Introducing a person (noun) |
| Il est grand et brun. | Describing the person (adjectives) |
| C’est un bon musicien. | Introducing a noun with adjective |
| Il est passionné. | Describing with adjective |
| Ce sont des tartes faites maison | Introducing plural noun |
| Elles sont délicieuses. | Describing plural noun with adjective |
In summary, “c’est” is for general identification and introduction (followed by nouns), while “il est” describes specific qualities (followed by adjectives) or tells time.