Diese Seite in deiner Sprache
English فارسی العربية Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
A2 noun #2,000 am häufigsten 13 Min. Lesezeit

en bonne santé

In a state of good health.

At the A1 beginner level, learners are introduced to the absolute fundamentals of the French language, focusing on basic personal identity, simple descriptions, and immediate needs. The phrase 'en bonne santé' is introduced early on as a crucial vocabulary item for describing one's physical state. Beginners learn to pair this phrase with the verb 'être' (to be) to form simple, declarative sentences such as 'Je suis en bonne santé' (I am healthy). The focus at this stage is on rote memorization of the phrase as a single, indivisible unit, rather than analyzing its grammatical components. Learners are taught that this is the standard response to inquiries about their well-being, moving beyond the simple 'ça va' to provide a more specific description of their physical condition. Additionally, the phrase is practiced in the context of basic doctor visits, where a learner might need to understand a physician saying 'Vous êtes en bonne santé'. The vocabulary surrounding this phrase at the A1 level includes basic body parts, simple ailments (like having a headache or a stomachache), and common adjectives related to feeling good or bad. Teachers emphasize the pronunciation, ensuring that the nasal sound in 'en' and 'santé' is articulated correctly. By mastering this phrase, A1 learners gain the ability to express a fundamental aspect of their human experience, laying the groundwork for more complex discussions about lifestyle and wellness in subsequent levels. The repetition of the phrase in various simple contexts helps solidify its meaning and usage in the learner's mind.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
Moving into the A2 elementary level, learners begin to expand their vocabulary and grammatical structures, allowing for more detailed and nuanced conversations about daily routines, habits, and lifestyle choices. The phrase 'en bonne santé' becomes a central component of discussions regarding what constitutes a healthy lifestyle. Learners are introduced to new verbs that pair with the phrase, such as 'rester' (to stay) and 'garder' (to keep), enabling them to express actions taken to maintain their well-being. For example, they might say, 'Je mange des légumes pour rester en bonne santé' (I eat vegetables to stay healthy). This level also introduces the concept of giving simple advice, where learners use the phrase in conjunction with modal verbs like 'devoir' (must) or 'falloir' (to be necessary), as in 'Il faut faire du sport pour être en bonne santé'. The vocabulary surrounding the phrase expands to include terms related to nutrition, exercise, and daily hygiene. Furthermore, A2 learners begin to contrast 'en bonne santé' with being sick ('malade'), allowing them to describe changes in their physical state. They also start to recognize the gender agreement within the phrase, understanding why it is 'bonne' and not 'bon'. Through role-playing exercises, such as simulating a conversation with a pharmacist or a gym instructor, learners practice using the phrase in practical, real-world scenarios. This expanded usage empowers A2 learners to actively participate in conversations about health, moving beyond simple descriptions to discussing the causes and effects of healthy habits.
At the B1 intermediate level, the focus shifts towards more complex interactions and the ability to express opinions, explain situations, and understand detailed information. The phrase 'en bonne santé' is utilized in broader contexts, including discussions about public health, medical advice, and societal trends. Learners at this stage are expected to understand and produce sentences that link lifestyle choices to long-term health outcomes. They might engage in debates about the benefits of organic food or the importance of mental health, using the phrase to articulate their viewpoints. The grammatical structures become more sophisticated, incorporating subordinate clauses and conditional tenses. For instance, a learner might say, 'Si tu faisais plus d'exercice, tu serais en meilleure santé' (If you exercised more, you would be in better health), introducing the comparative form 'en meilleure santé'. Vocabulary expands significantly to include medical symptoms, treatments, and preventative care. B1 learners also begin to encounter the metaphorical uses of the phrase, such as describing a company or an economy as being 'en bonne santé'. This metaphorical extension requires a deeper understanding of the language and the ability to infer meaning from context. Listening comprehension exercises might involve news reports on health statistics or interviews with medical professionals, where the phrase is used in a formal register. By the end of the B1 level, learners possess the linguistic tools to navigate a wide range of health-related topics, demonstrating a solid grasp of both the literal and figurative applications of the expression.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
For B2 upper-intermediate learners, the phrase 'en bonne santé' takes on new dimensions, extending beyond basic physical health to encompass mental well-being, work-life balance, and complex societal issues. At this level, learners are expected to engage in fluent, spontaneous conversations and produce clear, detailed texts on a wide range of subjects. The phrase is used in sophisticated arguments regarding healthcare systems, environmental impacts on health, and the ethics of medical interventions. Learners might write essays or give presentations on topics such as the psychological effects of modern work environments, using the phrase to advocate for holistic approaches to well-being. The grammatical context becomes highly advanced, incorporating the subjunctive mood to express doubt, necessity, or desire regarding health. For example, 'Il est essentiel que la population soit en bonne santé' (It is essential that the population be healthy). B2 learners also explore idiomatic expressions and synonyms related to the phrase, such as 'jouir d'une excellente santé' (to enjoy excellent health) or 'être sain de corps et d'esprit' (to be sound of body and mind). The metaphorical use of the phrase becomes second nature, allowing learners to seamlessly discuss the 'health' of political institutions, financial markets, or ecological systems. Reading materials include academic articles, opinion pieces, and literature where the concept of health is explored in depth. Mastery at the B2 level means the learner can use the phrase with precision, nuance, and cultural awareness, adapting their register to suit both formal and informal situations.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
At the C1 advanced level, learners are expected to navigate sophisticated texts and engage in nuanced discussions about healthcare systems, medical ethics, and societal well-being with near-native fluency. The phrase 'en bonne santé' is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a conceptual anchor for exploring complex philosophical and sociological themes. C1 learners analyze the cultural attitudes towards health in Francophone countries, comparing them with their own. They delve into the intricacies of the French healthcare system (l'Assurance Maladie), discussing policies aimed at keeping the population 'en bonne santé'. The language used is highly abstract and precise. Learners might debate the definition of health itself, referencing World Health Organization standards and exploring the intersection of physical, mental, and social well-being. They use the phrase effortlessly within complex syntactic structures, such as passive voices, inversions, and rhetorical questions. For example, 'Comment peut-on garantir que les générations futures resteront en bonne santé face aux défis climatiques ?' (How can we guarantee that future generations will remain healthy in the face of climate challenges?). Vocabulary at this level includes specialized medical terminology, public policy jargon, and advanced idiomatic expressions. C1 learners also critically evaluate media representations of health and wellness, deconstructing the language used in advertising and political campaigns. The ability to use 'en bonne santé' in such varied and demanding contexts demonstrates a profound mastery of the French language and a deep understanding of the cultural nuances surrounding the concept of well-being.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
Finally, at the C2 mastery level, learners possess a comprehensive, near-native command of the language, allowing them to appreciate the historical, literary, and philosophical nuances of the phrase 'en bonne santé'. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, the focus is on subtlety, tone, and the ability to convey precise shades of meaning in highly specialized or academic contexts. C2 learners might analyze classical French literature, examining how the concept of health and the phrase itself have evolved over centuries. They can effortlessly deconstruct the etymology of the words, understanding how the Latin roots inform contemporary usage. In professional settings, such as international medical conferences or high-level diplomatic negotiations, they use the phrase with absolute precision, navigating complex jargon and cultural sensitivities. They are capable of writing extensively on the sociology of health, using the phrase to critique systemic inequalities or advocate for global health initiatives. The grammatical execution is flawless, employing the rarest tenses and moods with ease. Furthermore, C2 learners play with the language, using irony, sarcasm, or poetic devices to subvert or enhance the meaning of the phrase. They might use it in a highly stylized manner to describe the fragile 'health' of a delicate ecosystem or the robust 'health' of a thriving artistic movement. At this level, 'en bonne santé' is a versatile instrument in a vast linguistic orchestra, played with the skill and intuition of a virtuoso.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

en bonne santé in 30 Sekunden

  • The standard French equivalent for the English adjective 'healthy' when referring to a state.
  • Constructed using the preposition 'en', the feminine adjective 'bonne', and the noun 'santé'.
  • Unlike English, French uses this prepositional phrase rather than a single adjective for people.
  • Can be used figuratively to describe economies, businesses, or relationships that are thriving.
To fully grasp the nuances of this expression, one must delve into the intricate relationship between language and the human experience of physical well-being. The phrase we are examining is not merely a collection of words, but a fundamental concept that permeates every aspect of daily life, from casual greetings to in-depth medical consultations. When you use this expression, you are conveying a state of optimal physiological and psychological balance, a condition where the body and mind function in perfect harmony without the disruption of illness or injury. This concept is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric, reflecting a society that values health, vitality, and the proactive maintenance of one's physical form.
Physical Aspect
This refers to the corporeal functioning of the body, ensuring all organs and systems operate harmoniously without pathological interruption.
In the context of grammar, the construction is a classic example of a prepositional phrase functioning as an adjective or adverb, depending on the verb it modifies. The preposition serves as the anchor, establishing the state or condition, while the adjective and noun work together to specify the exact nature of that state.

Il est important de rester en bonne santé pour profiter de la vie.

This syntactic structure is incredibly versatile, allowing it to be paired with a wide variety of verbs, such as to be, to stay, to seem, or to remain. Furthermore, the feminine agreement between the adjective and the noun is a crucial grammatical rule that learners must master early on, as it highlights the gendered nature of the language. Beyond its literal application to living beings, the phrase also possesses a rich metaphorical life. It is frequently employed in economic, political, and social discourse to describe systems, organizations, or relationships that are robust, stable, and thriving.
Metaphorical Aspect
Used to describe non-living entities like economies or businesses that are functioning optimally and showing signs of growth.
For instance, a financial analyst might use it to describe a company with a strong balance sheet, while a sociologist might apply it to a community with high levels of social cohesion.

L'économie du pays est en bonne santé cette année.

This metaphorical extension demonstrates the flexibility and depth of the expression, making it an indispensable tool for advanced communication. As you continue to explore the language, you will encounter numerous variations and related terms, each offering a slightly different shade of meaning.

Les enfants sont tous en bonne santé après les vacances.

However, this core phrase remains the gold standard for expressing the general concept of health. It is a phrase that you will hear and use countless times, whether you are wishing someone well, discussing your own fitness routine, or analyzing the health of a broader system.
Psychological Aspect
Increasingly used to encompass mental well-being, reflecting a modern, holistic understanding of human wellness.
Therefore, committing it to memory and understanding its various applications is essential for anyone seeking fluency. Let us now look at some specific examples and structural breakdowns to solidify your understanding.

Mon grand-père est toujours en bonne santé malgré son âge.

The preposition indicates the state, the adjective provides the qualitative assessment, and the noun identifies the domain of that assessment. Together, they form an elegant and highly functional linguistic unit. By mastering this phrase, you unlock a key component of everyday French discourse, enabling you to participate in conversations about one of the most universally important topics: human health and well-being.

Nous espérons que vous êtes en bonne santé.

The simplicity of the phrase belies its profound importance in facilitating human connection and expressing care for one another.
Understanding how to deploy this expression correctly in a sentence is a vital step toward achieving conversational fluency. The phrase functions primarily as an adjectival or adverbial locution, meaning it describes the state of a noun or modifies a verb related to state or condition. The most common verb paired with this phrase is the verb 'to be', which establishes a direct link between the subject and their current state of well-being.
With State Verbs
Verbs like être, rester, and demeurer are frequently used to indicate a continuous or current state of wellness.
However, the versatility of the expression allows it to be used with a wide array of other verbs, each adding a distinct nuance to the sentence. For example, using it with the verb 'to stay' emphasizes the continuation of health over time, often implying an active effort to maintain that state through diet, exercise, or other lifestyle choices.

Je fais du sport pour rester en bonne santé.

Similarly, pairing it with the verb 'to keep' suggests a protective action, often used when discussing public health measures or medical interventions designed to preserve the well-being of a population. Another common usage involves verbs of perception, such as 'to seem' or 'to appear', which are used when assessing someone else's physical condition based on visual cues.

Il a l'air d'être en bonne santé aujourd'hui.

This is particularly useful in social situations where you might comment on a friend's glowing appearance or a colleague's energetic demeanor.
With Perception Verbs
Verbs like paraître, sembler, and avoir l'air describe the outward manifestation of health.
It is also important to note the syntactic placement of the phrase within a sentence. Typically, it follows the verb it modifies, adhering to the standard subject-verb-complement structure of the French language.

Le patient semble en bonne santé après l'opération.

However, in more complex sentences, particularly those involving relative clauses or passive constructions, the placement may shift slightly, though the internal structure of the phrase itself remains immutable. This invariability is a significant advantage for learners, as it eliminates the need to worry about complex agreement rules once the basic phrase is memorized.

Elles sont toutes en bonne santé.

Furthermore, the phrase can be modified by adverbs of intensity to express varying degrees of health. For instance, adding 'very' or 'perfectly' before the adjective amplifies the meaning, indicating an exceptionally robust state of well-being.
Intensification
Adverbs like très, parfaitement, or particulièrement can be inserted to emphasize the degree of health.
Conversely, one might use it in a negative construction to indicate illness or a lack of vitality, though there are often more direct ways to express sickness.

Le chat est parfaitement en bonne santé.

Mastering these various applications and syntactic structures will significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively and naturally in French, allowing you to navigate conversations about health with confidence and precision.
The omnipresence of this expression in the French language means that you will encounter it in a vast array of contexts, ranging from the most intimate personal conversations to formal public discourse. One of the most common settings is, unsurprisingly, the medical environment. Whether you are visiting a general practitioner for a routine check-up, consulting a specialist, or speaking with a pharmacist, this phrase is a staple of medical vocabulary.
Medical Consultations
Doctors frequently use this phrase to reassure patients about their test results or general physical condition.
A doctor might use it to deliver good news after a series of tests, reassuring the patient that their body is functioning exactly as it should.

Le médecin m'a dit que je suis en bonne santé.

Beyond the clinic, the phrase is a frequent feature of everyday social interactions. It is commonly used when inquiring about the well-being of friends, family members, or colleagues, especially if they have recently recovered from an illness or returned from a long trip. In these contexts, the phrase serves as a marker of empathy and social cohesion, demonstrating care and concern for the other person's welfare.

J'espère que toute ta famille est en bonne santé.

The realm of fitness and nutrition is another major domain where this expression thrives. Gym instructors, dietitians, and wellness coaches frequently use it to motivate their clients, framing physical exertion and healthy eating as the pathways to achieving and maintaining this desirable state.
Fitness and Wellness
Used extensively in marketing for health foods, gym memberships, and lifestyle coaching.
You will see it plastered across advertisements for organic foods, dietary supplements, and exercise programs, all promising to help you reach your optimal physical condition.

Mangez des fruits pour rester en bonne santé.

Furthermore, the phrase is a staple of news broadcasts and journalistic writing, particularly when discussing public health initiatives, epidemiological trends, or the overall well-being of the population. In a more metaphorical sense, financial journalists and economic analysts frequently employ the phrase to describe the vitality of markets, corporations, or national economies.
Economic Discourse
A common metaphor used to describe financial stability and robust economic growth.
A thriving business might be described as being in this state, indicating strong revenues, solid management, and a positive outlook for the future.

Notre entreprise est financièrement en bonne santé.

This widespread usage across such diverse fields underscores the fundamental importance of the concept of health in French culture and language. By familiarizing yourself with these various contexts, you will not only improve your vocabulary but also gain a deeper understanding of the societal values that shape the way the language is used.

Le marché immobilier semble en bonne santé ce trimestre.

Whether literal or metaphorical, the phrase remains a powerful tool for describing positive, stable, and thriving conditions.
Despite its relative simplicity, learners of French frequently stumble over certain aspects of this expression, often due to direct translation from their native language or a misunderstanding of French prepositional usage. One of the most prevalent errors is the incorrect choice of preposition. English speakers, for instance, might be tempted to use 'dans' (in) instead of 'en', leading to the grammatically incorrect construction.
Preposition Error
Using 'dans' instead of 'en' is a classic mistake caused by literal translation from English 'in good health'.
The preposition 'en' is specifically required here to denote a state or condition, whereas 'dans' typically denotes physical location within a bounded space.

Incorrect: Je suis dans bonne santé. Correct: Je suis en bonne santé.

Another frequent stumbling block involves gender agreement. Because the noun is feminine, the adjective must also be feminine. Learners sometimes mistakenly use the masculine form, resulting in an awkward and incorrect phrase. This mistake is particularly common among beginners who have not yet fully internalized the rules of gender agreement in French.

Incorrect: Il est en bon santé. Correct: Il est en bonne santé.

Furthermore, learners often struggle with the inclusion or omission of articles. In English, we say 'in good health', without an article. In French, the rule is the same for this specific locution; no article is used between the preposition and the adjective.
Article Intrusion
Inserting 'la' or 'une' into the phrase disrupts the fixed nature of the locution.
However, learners sometimes insert a definite or indefinite article, creating a clunky and unnatural sentence.

Incorrect: Elle est en la bonne santé. Correct: Elle est en bonne santé.

Another area of confusion arises when learners attempt to use the phrase as a direct adjective modifying a noun, rather than as a predicative expression following a verb. While you can say 'a healthy person' in English, in French, you generally use a relative clause or a different adjective entirely, such as 'sain'. Attempting to place the phrase directly before or after a noun without a linking verb often leads to syntactic errors.
Syntactic Misplacement
Using the phrase as an attributive adjective rather than a predicative phrase.
Finally, learners sometimes confuse this phrase with related but distinct expressions, such as being in good shape, which refers more to physical fitness than general health.

Incorrect: Une en bonne santé femme. Correct: Une femme en bonne santé.

By being aware of these common pitfalls and actively practicing the correct structures, learners can quickly overcome these challenges and use the expression with the confidence and accuracy of a native speaker.

Assurez-vous d'être en bonne santé avant de voyager.

Consistent exposure and mindful repetition are the keys to eliminating these errors from your active vocabulary.
The French language boasts a rich and nuanced vocabulary for discussing physical well-being, offering several alternatives to our primary expression, each with its own specific connotations and appropriate contexts. Understanding these synonyms and related terms is crucial for developing a sophisticated and varied vocabulary. One of the most common related words is the adjective 'sain', which translates to 'healthy' or 'wholesome'.
Sain(e)
Used primarily to describe things that promote health, such as food, environments, or habits, rather than the state of a person.
While our primary phrase describes the state of a living being, 'sain' is more frequently applied to lifestyle choices, diets, or environments that contribute to that state.

Il mène une vie saine pour rester en bonne santé.

Another highly common expression is 'en pleine forme', which translates roughly to 'in great shape' or 'full of energy'. This phrase is often used in casual conversation to describe someone who is not only free from illness but also visibly energetic, vibrant, and physically fit.

Après mes vacances, je me sens en pleine forme et en bonne santé.

For a more formal or literary register, one might encounter the term 'bien portant', which literally means 'carrying oneself well'.
Bien portant
A slightly more formal or traditional way of describing someone who is healthy and robust.
This term carries a slightly old-fashioned charm and is often used in written texts or formal speeches to describe a robust and healthy individual.

C'est un jeune homme bien portant et en bonne santé.

In medical contexts, you might hear the term 'indemne', which means 'unharmed' or 'free from injury or disease', though this is highly specific and not used in everyday conversation. Additionally, the phrase 'avoir une santé de fer' (to have an iron health) is a popular idiom used to describe someone who rarely gets sick and possesses an exceptionally strong constitution.
Idiomatic Expressions
Phrases like 'une santé de fer' add color and vivid imagery to descriptions of physical resilience.
Exploring these similar words and expressions not only prevents repetition in your speech and writing but also allows you to express subtle distinctions in meaning.

Mon oncle a une santé de fer, il est toujours en bonne santé.

Whether you are emphasizing energy, lifestyle, formal robustness, or unbreakable resilience, the French language provides a precise tool for the job.

Pour être vigoureux, il faut d'abord être en bonne santé.

By integrating these alternatives into your repertoire, you will elevate your linguistic competence and communicate with greater nuance and precision.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

""

Neutral

""

Informell

""

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Je suis en bonne santé.

I am healthy.

Uses the verb 'être' (to be) with the phrase.

2

Le bébé est en bonne santé.

The baby is healthy.

Third person singular with 'être'.

3

Tu es en bonne santé ?

Are you healthy?

Simple question format.

4

Mon chien est en bonne santé.

My dog is healthy.

Applying the phrase to an animal.

5

Nous sommes en bonne santé.

We are healthy.

First person plural with 'être'.

6

Elle n'est pas en bonne santé.

She is not healthy.

Negative construction with 'ne...pas'.

7

Ils sont en bonne santé.

They are healthy.

Third person plural with 'être'.

8

Le chat est en bonne santé.

The cat is healthy.

Simple descriptive sentence.

1

Je mange des fruits pour rester en bonne santé.

I eat fruits to stay healthy.

Uses 'pour' + infinitive 'rester'.

2

Il faut faire du sport pour être en bonne santé.

You must exercise to be healthy.

Uses the impersonal 'il faut'.

3

Mes grands-parents sont toujours en bonne santé.

My grandparents are still healthy.

Includes the adverb 'toujours'.

4

Elle a l'air en bonne santé aujourd'hui.

She looks healthy today.

Uses the expression 'avoir l'air'.

5

Boire de l'eau aide à rester en bonne santé.

Drinking water helps to stay healthy.

Infinitive as a subject.

6

Le médecin dit que je suis en bonne santé.

The doctor says I am healthy.

Reported speech with 'que'.

7

Dormir bien est important pour la bonne santé.

Sleeping well is important for good health.

Using the noun phrase directly.

8

Ils voyagent beaucoup car ils sont en bonne santé.

They travel a lot because they are healthy.

Using 'car' to show cause.

1

Si tu arrêtais de fumer, tu serais en meilleure santé.

If you stopped smoking, you would be in better health.

Conditional sentence with 'si'.

2

L'entreprise est financièrement en bonne santé cette année.

The company is financially healthy this year.

Metaphorical use with an adverb.

3

Il est essentiel de se maintenir en bonne santé.

It is essential to keep oneself healthy.

Reflexive verb 'se maintenir'.

4

Malgré son âge, il a réussi à rester en bonne santé.

Despite his age, he managed to stay healthy.

Uses 'malgré' (despite).

5

Une alimentation équilibrée garantit une bonne santé.

A balanced diet guarantees good health.

Using the noun phrase as an object.

6

Je doute qu'il soit en bonne santé.

I doubt that he is healthy.

Requires the subjunctive 'soit'.

7

La santé publique vise à garder la population en bonne santé.

Public health aims to keep the population healthy.

Uses 'viser à' (aims to).

8

Elle a retrouvé une bonne santé après l'opération.

She regained good health after the surgery.

Uses 'retrouver' (to regain).

1

Il est primordial que les employés soient en bonne santé mentale.

It is vital that employees are in good mental health.

Subjunctive with 'primordial que'.

2

L'économie du pays semble être en bonne santé malgré la crise.

The country's economy seems to be healthy despite the crisis.

Complex metaphorical sentence.

3

Pourvu qu'ils restent en bonne santé pendant leur voyage.

Provided they stay healthy during their trip.

Subjunctive after 'pourvu que'.

4

C'est un écosystème en bonne santé, riche en biodiversité.

It is a healthy ecosystem, rich in biodiversity.

Used as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun.

5

Le maintien en bonne santé des seniors est un défi majeur.

Keeping seniors healthy is a major challenge.

Nominalization 'le maintien'.

6

Elle se vante d'être toujours en excellente santé.

She boasts about always being in excellent health.

Uses 'excellente' instead of 'bonne'.

7

Bien qu'il soit en bonne santé, il consulte régulièrement.

Although he is healthy, he consults regularly.

Concessive clause with 'bien que'.

8

La pérennité de l'association prouve qu'elle est en bonne santé.

The longevity of the association proves it is healthy.

Abstract metaphorical subject.

1

Les politiques publiques doivent promouvoir le maintien en bonne santé.

Public policies must promote the maintenance of good health.

Formal vocabulary 'promouvoir'.

2

Il est illusoire de croire qu'une économie peut rester indéfiniment en bonne santé.

It is illusory to believe an economy can stay healthy indefinitely.

Advanced abstract structure.

3

Seul un esprit sain dans un corps en bonne santé permet l'épanouissement.

Only a sound mind in a healthy body allows for fulfillment.

Philosophical phrasing.

4

La robustesse du marché témoigne d'un secteur bancaire en bonne santé.

The market's robustness testifies to a healthy banking sector.

High-level metaphorical use.

5

À supposer qu'il soit en bonne santé, il pourrait assumer ce poste.

Assuming he is healthy, he could take on this position.

Hypothetical structure 'À supposer que'.

6

L'enjeu est de vieillir tout en restant en bonne santé.

The challenge is to age while remaining healthy.

Gerund 'en restant'.

7

Rien ne garantit que le système de santé restera en bonne santé financière.

Nothing guarantees the healthcare system will remain in good financial health.

Double meaning of health.

8

C'est à la condition d'être en bonne santé qu'il pourra participer.

It is on the condition of being healthy that he will be able to participate.

Conditional phrase 'à la condition de'.

1

L'auteur dépeint une société utopique où chaque citoyen jouit d'une existence en bonne santé.

The author depicts a utopian society where every citizen enjoys a healthy existence.

Literary vocabulary 'dépeint', 'jouit'.

2

Que la démocratie soit en bonne santé relève parfois du mirage.

That democracy is healthy sometimes borders on a mirage.

Subjunctive subject clause.

3

Il s'enorgueillit d'une constitution en si bonne santé qu'elle défie le temps.

He prides himself on a constitution in such good health that it defies time.

Advanced verb 's'enorgueillit'.

4

La pérennisation de ces acquis sociaux est le symptôme d'une nation en bonne santé.

The perpetuation of these social achievements is the symptom of a healthy nation.

Complex sociological vocabulary.

5

Fût-il en bonne santé, il n'aurait pu survivre à un tel choc.

Even if he had been healthy, he could not have survived such a shock.

Literary imperfect subjunctive 'Fût-il'.

6

On ne saurait affirmer que le tissu industriel est en bonne santé.

One cannot assert that the industrial fabric is healthy.

Formal conditional 'On ne saurait'.

7

Le maintien en bonne santé cognitive est le graal de la gérontologie moderne.

Maintaining cognitive health is the holy grail of modern gerontology.

Highly specialized vocabulary.

8

Tant s'en faut que l'entreprise soit en bonne santé, elle frôle la faillite.

Far from the company being healthy, it is bordering on bankruptcy.

Rare idiomatic structure 'Tant s'en faut que'.

Häufige Kollokationen

être en bonne santé
rester en bonne santé
garder en bonne santé
se maintenir en bonne santé
paraître en bonne santé
sembler en bonne santé
le maintien en bonne santé
parfaitement en bonne santé
toujours en bonne santé
financièrement en bonne santé

Häufige Phrasen

Je suis en bonne santé.

Pour rester en bonne santé.

Il est en bonne santé.

Une entreprise en bonne santé.

Un bébé en bonne santé.

Manger pour être en bonne santé.

Le secret d'une bonne santé.

Retrouver une bonne santé.

Vivre en bonne santé.

Vieillir en bonne santé.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

en bonne santé vs sain (healthy as in wholesome/good for you)

en bonne santé vs salubre (healthy environment)

en bonne santé vs en forme (fit/energetic)

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Leicht verwechselbar

en bonne santé vs

en bonne santé vs

en bonne santé vs

en bonne santé vs

en bonne santé vs

Satzmuster

Registriere dich kostenlos, um alle Beispiele zu sehen

So verwendest du es

article omission

Notice the absence of 'la'. It is 'en bonne santé', not 'en la bonne santé'.

literal vs figurative

While primarily literal (physical health), its figurative use (financial/structural health) is extremely common in journalism and business.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'dans' instead of 'en' (e.g., 'dans bonne santé').
  • Using the masculine adjective 'bon' (e.g., 'en bon santé').
  • Inserting an article (e.g., 'en la bonne santé').
  • Using it as a direct adjective before a noun (e.g., 'une en bonne santé personne').
  • Confusing it with 'sain' when describing food (e.g., 'une pomme en bonne santé').

Tipps

Always Feminine

Never change 'bonne' to 'bon'. The word 'santé' dictates the gender. Even if a group of men is the subject, they are 'en bonne santé'.

State vs Action

Use 'en bonne santé' to describe the state. Use 'sain' to describe the action or food that gets you there. A healthy meal is 'un repas sain'.

En, not Dans

English speakers often want to say 'dans bonne santé'. Resist this urge. States of being in French almost always use 'en'.

Excellent Health

To sound more advanced, upgrade 'bonne' to 'excellente'. 'Il est en excellente santé' sounds very professional and fluent.

Business Talk

Impress your colleagues by using this phrase for business. 'Le marché est en bonne santé' shows a high level of cultural fluency.

Nasal Sounds

Practice the nasal /ɑ̃/ sound. Both 'en' and 'san' use this sound. It should resonate in your nose, not your throat.

Iron Health

If someone is never sick, use the idiom 'avoir une santé de fer'. It's a colorful alternative to our main phrase.

New Year Wishes

In January, always wish people 'Bonne année et bonne santé'. It is the standard, expected greeting in France.

No Articles

When writing, double-check that you haven't slipped an article in. 'En la bonne santé' is a dead giveaway of a non-native speaker.

Liaison

Listen for the liaison. The 'n' in 'en' connects smoothly to the 'b' in 'bonne'. It sounds like one continuous word: /ɑ̃bɔn/.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'ENtering a BONe SANctuary' where all bones are healthy and strong.

Wortherkunft

Latin

Kultureller Kontext

When clinking glasses, the French say 'Santé !' or 'À ta santé !' (To your health!).

It is very common to add 'et surtout la santé' (and above all, health) when wishing someone a Happy New Year.

The 'Carte Vitale' is the health insurance card every resident carries to ensure they can afford to stay 'en bonne santé'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"Que fais-tu pour rester en bonne santé ?"

"Penses-tu que notre mode de vie moderne nous empêche d'être en bonne santé ?"

"Est-ce que toute ta famille est en bonne santé ?"

"Quel est le secret d'une longue vie en bonne santé ?"

"Comment l'entreprise peut-elle rester en bonne santé financière ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décris ta routine quotidienne pour rester en bonne santé.

Raconte une fois où tu n'étais pas en bonne santé et comment tu as guéri.

Que signifie pour toi être en bonne santé mentale ?

Fais une liste de cinq aliments qui t'aident à rester en bonne santé.

Comment le système de santé de ton pays aide-t-il les gens à rester en bonne santé ?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

In French, 'en' is used to describe a state or condition, whereas 'dans' is used for physical locations or boundaries. Health is a state of being, not a physical box you step into. Therefore, 'en bonne santé' is the grammatically correct way to express this state. Using 'dans' sounds very unnatural to a native speaker. Always remember: states take 'en'.

No, you cannot. The adjective 'bonne' agrees with the noun 'santé', which is always feminine. The gender of the subject (Il) does not change the gender of the noun inside the prepositional phrase. Therefore, it is always 'en bonne santé', regardless of who you are talking about. This is a fixed phrase.

'En bonne santé' is used to describe the state of a living being (a person, animal, or plant) that is not sick. 'Sain', on the other hand, is usually used to describe things that promote health, like food (une alimentation saine) or an environment. While you can call a person 'sain' (meaning sound of mind/body), 'en bonne santé' is the much more common and natural way to say someone is healthy. Keep 'sain' for lifestyle choices.

Yes, it is very polite and common. Asking 'J'espère que vous êtes en bonne santé' (I hope you are in good health) is a standard formal greeting. It shows care and respect. In informal situations, people might just ask 'Ça va ?', but adding 'en bonne santé' makes the inquiry more specific and thoughtful. It is especially appropriate when asking about elderly family members.

Yes, but only metaphorically. It is very common in business and economics to describe a company, a market, or an economy as being 'en bonne santé'. This means the entity is financially stable, growing, and robust. For example, 'L'entreprise est en bonne santé' means the company is doing well financially. You would not use it for inanimate objects like a car or a chair.

No, you do not use an article in this specific prepositional phrase. It is simply 'en bonne santé'. Adding 'la' or 'une' (e.g., 'en la bonne santé') is grammatically incorrect. The preposition 'en' often absorbs or negates the need for an article when forming fixed expressions of state. Just memorize the three words together.

You would typically use a verb that indicates a change of state. You could say 'Je veux retrouver une bonne santé' (I want to regain good health) or 'Je veux me remettre en bonne santé'. Alternatively, you can focus on the action: 'Je veux vivre plus sainement' (I want to live more healthily). Direct translation of 'get healthy' requires a bit of restructuring in French.

The most direct opposite is 'en mauvaise santé' (in poor health). However, in everyday conversation, people are more likely to simply say 'malade' (sick) or 'souffrant' (suffering/unwell). If you want to describe a chronic state of bad health, 'en mauvaise santé' is the perfect antonym. You can also use the negative: 'Il n'est pas en bonne santé'.

While understandable, it sounds a bit clunky. It is better to modify the adjective directly. You can say 'en très bonne santé' (in very good health) or 'en excellente santé' (in excellent health). Placing the adverb before the adjective makes the sentence flow much more naturally. 'Parfaitement en bonne santé' is also a great alternative.

Etymologically, yes. Both come from the Latin root 'sanitas', meaning health or soundness. However, in modern usage, they are false friends. English 'sanity' refers strictly to mental health, while French 'santé' refers to overall health, primarily physical. To translate 'sanity' into French, you would use 'santé mentale' or 'raison'.

Registriere dich kostenlos für Tipps & Notizen

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Registriere dich kostenlos zum Üben

Verwandte Inhalte

War das hilfreich?

Kommentare (0)

Zum Kommentieren Anmelden
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!