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B1 noun 10 min de lectura

en bonne forme

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos en bonne forme en 30 segundos
Explicación en bonne forme in your Level:
At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn how to describe yourself and others. 'En bonne forme' is a very useful phrase to add to your basic vocabulary. It allows you to go beyond 'Ça va bien' (I'm doing well) and specifically talk about your health or fitness. At this stage, you should focus on using it with the verb 'être' (to be). For example, 'Je suis en bonne forme' or 'Tu es en bonne forme ?'. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that 'en' is the little word you need before 'bonne forme'. It's a great way to answer a question about how you are feeling after a long walk or a day of sightseeing. Think of it as a 'power phrase' that makes you sound more like a native speaker even with limited vocabulary. You might also see it in simple health posters or gym advertisements.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'en bonne forme' in more varied sentences. You might use it to describe your family members or friends: 'Ma mère est en bonne forme'. You can also begin to use it with 'parce que' (because) to explain why someone is in good shape. For example, 'Il est en bonne forme parce qu'il fait du sport'. This level is also where you should be careful with the gender of 'bonne'. Remember that even if you are a man, you say 'Je suis en bonne forme' because 'forme' is a feminine word. You can also start using the negative form: 'Je ne suis pas en bonne forme aujourd'hui'. This is very helpful when you want to explain why you can't go for a run or why you are feeling a bit tired. It helps you build more descriptive and natural conversations about daily life and health habits.
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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'en bonne forme' in a variety of contexts, including work, sports, and social life. You can use it to talk about future goals, such as 'Je veux être en bonne forme pour mes vacances l'été prochain'. You should also be able to use it with more complex verbs like 'se sentir' (to feel) or 'paraître' (to appear). For example, 'Elle semble en bonne forme malgré son récent rhume'. This level requires you to understand the difference between 'en bonne forme' (fitness/vitality) and 'en bonne santé' (medical health). You can also start adding adverbs of intensity like 'très' or 'assez' to refine your meaning. This phrase becomes a key part of your ability to discuss lifestyle choices, well-being, and personal development in French. You might encounter it in newspaper articles about health or in more detailed conversations with French-speaking friends.
At the B2 level, you can use 'en bonne forme' in more abstract and professional contexts. You might use it to describe the state of an organization, a project, or even an economy: 'L'économie française est en bonne forme cette année'. You should also be aware of more idiomatic alternatives like 'en pleine forme' and know when to choose one over the other based on the register of the conversation. At this level, you can use the phrase in complex sentence structures, such as 'Bien qu'il n'ait pas beaucoup dormi, il reste en assez bonne forme'. You are expected to use the phrase naturally in debates about health policy, sports culture, or work-life balance. Your understanding of the phrase should include its cultural connotations—the French emphasis on 'la forme' as a holistic state of being rather than just a physical appearance.
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At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated grasp of 'en bonne forme' and its many nuances. You can use it with subtle irony or within complex literary descriptions. You understand how it contrasts with more specialized medical or athletic terminology. You can use it to discuss the philosophy of health in France, perhaps comparing it to concepts like 'le bien-être' or 'la vitalité'. You should be able to identify the phrase in high-level literature or academic texts where it might be used metaphorically. For example, a political analyst might describe a political party as being 'en bonne forme' before an election. You are also proficient in using the full range of related idioms like 'avoir la patate' or 'péter le feu' and can switch between them and 'en bonne forme' depending on your audience and purpose. Your use of the phrase is seamless and culturally appropriate.
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At the C2 level, 'en bonne forme' is just one tool in a vast arsenal of expressions. You use it with the precision of a native speaker, understanding all its historical and social baggage. You can analyze its use in various media—from 19th-century novels to modern-day podcasts. You might use it in a highly formal speech or a technical medical discussion, knowing exactly how it fits into the broader linguistic landscape. You are sensitive to the rhythm and flow of the phrase within long, complex sentences. You can also play with the phrase, perhaps using it in a pun or a creative writing context. For a C2 learner, the phrase is not just a vocabulary item but a reflection of a deep cultural understanding of health and vitality in the Francophone world. You could even discuss the linguistic evolution of the word 'forme' from Latin to its current usage in this specific locution.
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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

en bonne forme en 30 segundos

  • Means being in good physical and mental shape.
  • Used with the verb 'être' or 'se sentir'.
  • Essential for discussing health and fitness in French.
  • Common in sports, medical, and social contexts.

The expression en bonne forme is a fundamental French locution used to describe a state of physical and mental well-being. While it literally translates to 'in good form,' its usage in French is deeply nuanced, reflecting not just athletic prowess but a general state of health and vitality. When someone says they are 'en bonne forme,' they are communicating that their body is functioning optimally, they have sufficient energy for daily tasks, and they are free from significant illness or fatigue. This phrase is ubiquitous in French culture, appearing in medical consultations, sports commentary, and casual greetings. It is the gold standard for describing a healthy individual.

Physical Context
Refers to being physically fit, having stamina, and maintaining a healthy body weight. It is often used after a period of exercise or recovery from illness.

Après trois mois d'entraînement, il est enfin en bonne forme pour le marathon.

In professional environments, being 'en bonne forme' can also refer to a company's financial health or the state of a project, though it is primarily human-centric. The French value the balance between work and life, and being 'en bonne forme' is seen as a prerequisite for a successful life. It suggests a proactive approach to health—eating well, sleeping enough, and staying active. It is less about being a bodybuilder and more about being functional and resilient. You will hear it in gyms (salles de sport), at the doctor's office (chez le médecin), and in the park among joggers.

Emotional Context
While primarily physical, it can imply a positive mental state, as physical health and mental alertness are closely linked in the French mindset.

Elle se sent en bonne forme mentale pour affronter ses examens.

The phrase is also flexible in its intensity. One can be 'en pleine forme' (in great shape) or 'en assez bonne forme' (in fairly good shape). This versatility makes it a staple of the French language. Understanding this phrase is key to discussing lifestyle, health goals, and personal well-being with native speakers. It moves beyond the basic 'Ça va?' to provide a more descriptive assessment of one's condition. It is a phrase of positivity and strength.

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

Social Register
Neutral to Formal. It is appropriate in almost any setting, from a casual chat with a neighbor to a formal medical report.

Le rapport médical indique que le patient est en bonne forme physique.

Pour rester en bonne forme, il faut manger des légumes et faire du sport.

Using en bonne forme correctly requires an understanding of French sentence structure, specifically the use of the verb être (to be) or se sentir (to feel). Unlike some adjectives that change based on gender and number, 'forme' is a feminine noun, but the phrase 'en bonne forme' functions as an adverbial or adjectival block that remains relatively stable, though 'bonne' must always be feminine to match 'forme'. You will most commonly see it following a subject and a linking verb.

With the verb 'Être'
This is the most direct way to state someone's condition. 'Je suis en bonne forme' means 'I am in good shape.'

Est-ce que tu es en bonne forme ce matin ?

When describing a group, the phrase remains 'en bonne forme'. For example, 'Ils sont en bonne forme'. The word 'bonne' stays feminine singular because it modifies the noun 'forme', which is part of the fixed prepositional phrase. You can also use it with verbs of perception like paraître (to appear) or sembler (to seem). This adds a layer of observation to your statement, which is very common in descriptive French writing and speaking.

With 'Se Sentir'
Used to describe one's internal sense of health. 'Je me sens en bonne forme' emphasizes the feeling of vitality.

Elle ne se sent pas en bonne forme aujourd'hui, elle va rester au lit.

In negative sentences, 'en bonne forme' follows the standard 'ne... pas' structure surrounding the auxiliary verb. For instance, 'Il n'est pas en bonne forme'. This is a polite way to say someone is unwell or out of shape without being overly blunt. In more complex sentences, you might use it as a condition: 'Si tu veux être en bonne forme, tu dois dormir plus'. This shows the causal relationship between lifestyle choices and health outcomes.

Modifying the Phrase
You can add adverbs like 'très' (very) or 'assez' (fairly) before 'bonne' to change the intensity.

Il est en très bonne forme pour son âge.

Maintenir une routine est essentiel pour rester en bonne forme.

The phrase en bonne forme resonates through various layers of French society. One of the most common places to hear it is in the context of sports and fitness. If you visit a 'club de gym' or a 'centre de remise en forme' in Paris or Lyon, trainers will constantly use this phrase to encourage their clients. They might say, 'On va vous remettre en bonne forme !' (We are going to get you back in good shape!). It’s a term of motivation and progress.

Medical Consultations
Doctors use it to summarize a patient's health status. It’s a comforting phrase to hear during a check-up.

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

You will also encounter this phrase in the media. Sports journalists analyzing the performance of athletes in the Tour de France or Roland Garros frequently debate whether a player is 'en bonne forme'. If an athlete is struggling, the commentators might speculate that they are 'pas en bonne forme physique' (not in good physical shape). This usage highlights the phrase's connection to peak performance and readiness. It is also common in advertisements for vitamins, supplements, and healthy food products, where 'rester en bonne forme' is the ultimate selling point.

Daily Social Interactions
When meeting friends after a long time, it’s a standard compliment. 'Tu as l'air en bonne forme !' (You look like you're in good shape!).

Ça fait plaisir de te voir en bonne forme après tes vacances.

Furthermore, in the workplace, managers might use the phrase during performance reviews, not to discuss physical fitness, but to describe the 'forme' (state) of a team or a project. 'L'équipe est en bonne forme pour terminer le projet' implies the team is energized and capable. This metaphorical use is less common than the physical one but still vital for B1-B2 learners to recognize. Essentially, anywhere health, energy, or readiness is discussed, 'en bonne forme' will be there.

Malgré le stress, l'entreprise reste en bonne forme financière.

Il est important d'être en bonne forme avant de partir en randonnée.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is a literal translation from English. In English, we say 'in good shape'. Many learners try to translate 'shape' as 'forme' but use the wrong preposition. They might say 'dans une bonne forme'. In French, the preposition en is mandatory in this fixed expression. Using 'dans' sounds unnatural and is grammatically incorrect in this context. It's a classic 'Anglicisme' that teachers often correct.

Preposition Error
Incorrect: Je suis dans bonne forme. Correct: Je suis en bonne forme.

N'utilisez jamais 'dans' pour traduire 'in' dans cette expression : en bonne forme.

Another mistake involves gender agreement. Because 'forme' is a feminine noun, the adjective 'bonne' must also be feminine. Learners often forget this and say 'en bon forme'. Even if the person you are describing is male (e.g., 'Il est en bonne forme'), the adjective 'bonne' agrees with the noun 'forme', not the subject 'Il'. This is a tricky point for many B1 learners who are used to adjectives agreeing with the subject of the sentence. Remember: the phrase is a fixed unit.

Gender Agreement
Incorrect: Il est en bon forme. Correct: Il est en bonne forme.

Même pour un homme, on dit qu'il est en bonne forme.

Lastly, learners sometimes confuse 'en bonne forme' with 'en bon état'. 'En bon état' is used for objects (like a car or a house), whereas 'en bonne forme' is almost exclusively for living beings or abstract concepts like a company. Saying 'ma voiture est en bonne forme' would sound like you are personifying your car in a strange way. Stick to 'en bon état' for things and 'en bonne forme' for people and their health. Mastering these distinctions will make your French sound much more authentic.

Confusion with Objects
Incorrect: Mon vélo est en bonne forme. Correct: Mon vélo est en bon état.

On réserve en bonne forme pour la santé humaine.

To truly master French, you need to know the synonyms and nuances of en bonne forme. While it is a great all-purpose phrase, other expressions might be more suitable depending on the level of intensity or the specific context. For instance, if you want to say someone is in *excellent* shape, you would use 'en pleine forme'. This suggests a high level of energy and radiance. It's what you say when you've had a great night's sleep and a double espresso.

En pleine forme
Much stronger than 'en bonne forme'. It implies peak vitality. Example: 'Je me sens en pleine forme ce matin !'

Après ses vacances, elle est revenue en pleine forme.

Another alternative is 'en bonne santé', which focuses purely on medical health. While 'en bonne forme' includes fitness and energy, 'en bonne santé' simply means you aren't sick. You could be 'en bonne santé' but 'pas en bonne forme' if you are lazy and out of breath. Conversely, 'vigoureux' or 'robuste' are more formal adjectives used to describe someone with a strong constitution. These are often used in literature or formal health assessments to describe physical strength.

En bonne santé
Focuses on the absence of illness. Example: 'L'important, c'est d'être en bonne santé.'

Il mange bio pour rester en bonne santé.

For more informal settings, you might hear 'péter le feu' (literally 'to fart fire'), which is a very colorful way of saying someone has incredible energy. Or 'avoir la pêche' (to have the peach), which means to be in high spirits and full of energy. These idioms are great for C1/C2 learners but B1 students should focus on 'en bonne forme' first as it is more versatile and universally accepted. Understanding the spectrum from 'malade' (sick) to 'en pleine forme' is essential for describing the human condition in French.

Avoir la pêche
Informal idiom for being energetic. Example: 'Depuis qu'il fait du sport, il a la pêche !'

Ce matin, je pète le feu !

Elle cherche des exercices pour se maintenir en bonne forme.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

In the 16th century, 'forme' was often used to describe the physical beauty and proportion of the body, which evolved into the modern sense of fitness.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ɑ̃ bɔn fɔʁm/
US /ɑ̃ bɔn fɔrm/
Stress is usually on the final syllable of the phrase: 'forme'.
Rima con
norme conforme énorme réforme plateforme uniforme mélangeforme multiforme
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 'n' in 'en' too clearly (it should be nasal).
  • Making 'bonne' sound like 'bone' (it should be short like 'bun').
  • Ignoring the French 'r' in 'forme'.
  • Stress on 'bonne' instead of 'forme'.
  • Failing to elide correctly if a vowel follows (though not applicable here).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize as it looks like 'form'.

Escritura 3/5

Must remember the 'en' and the feminine 'bonne'.

Expresión oral 3/5

Requires correct nasal pronunciation of 'en'.

Escucha 2/5

Clearly articulated in most contexts.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

être bon/bonne la santé le corps en

Aprende después

en pleine forme avoir la pêche la remise en forme s'entraîner le bien-être

Avanzado

la constitution la vigueur la sénescence l'homéostasie la tonicité

Gramática que debes saber

Preposition 'en' with states of being

en colère, en avance, en bonne forme

Adjective agreement with fixed nouns

Bonne always matches Forme (fem).

Using 'pour' + infinitive for purpose

Je cours pour être en forme.

Reflexive verbs for feelings

Je me sens en bonne forme.

Comparison of adjectives

Je suis en meilleure forme qu'hier.

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Ejemplos por nivel

1

Je suis en bonne forme.

I am in good shape.

Uses the verb 'être' in the present tense.

2

Tu es en bonne forme ?

Are you in good shape?

A simple question using inversion or intonation.

3

Il est en bonne forme.

He is in good shape.

Subject 'Il' + verb 'est'.

4

Elle est en bonne forme.

She is in good shape.

Subject 'Elle' + verb 'est'. Note 'bonne' is always feminine.

5

Nous sommes en bonne forme.

We are in good shape.

Plural subject 'Nous'.

6

Vous êtes en bonne forme ?

Are you (plural/formal) in good shape?

Plural/Formal 'Vous'.

7

Ils sont en bonne forme.

They are in good shape.

Plural masculine 'Ils'.

8

Elles sont en bonne forme.

They (feminine) are in good shape.

Plural feminine 'Elles'.

1

Je ne suis pas en bonne forme aujourd'hui.

I am not in good shape today.

Negative structure 'ne... pas'.

2

Mon père est en très bonne forme.

My father is in very good shape.

Adds the adverb 'très'.

3

Elle fait du sport pour être en bonne forme.

She does sports to be in good shape.

Uses 'pour' + infinitive 'être'.

4

Nous marchons beaucoup pour rester en bonne forme.

We walk a lot to stay in good shape.

Uses the verb 'rester' (to stay).

5

Est-ce que tu te sens en bonne forme ?

Do you feel in good shape?

Uses the reflexive verb 'se sentir'.

6

Il mange des fruits pour être en bonne forme.

He eats fruit to be in good shape.

Connecting diet and health.

7

Elles sont en bonne forme après les vacances.

They are in good shape after the holidays.

Temporal phrase 'après les vacances'.

8

Vous semblez en bonne forme ce matin.

You seem in good shape this morning.

Uses the verb 'sembler' (to seem).

1

Il est essentiel de rester en bonne forme pour sa santé.

It is essential to stay in good shape for one's health.

Uses the impersonal 'Il est essentiel de'.

2

Bien qu'il soit âgé, il est toujours en bonne forme.

Although he is old, he is still in good shape.

Uses the subjonctif 'soit' after 'bien que'.

3

Je me sens en assez bonne forme pour aller courir.

I feel in good enough shape to go for a run.

Adverb 'assez' modifying the phrase.

4

Elle a retrouvé une bonne forme physique après son opération.

She regained good physical shape after her operation.

Uses 'retrouver' + noun phrase.

5

Il faut s'entraîner régulièrement pour être en bonne forme.

One must train regularly to be in good shape.

Uses 'Il faut' + infinitive.

6

Le médecin m'a assuré que j'étais en bonne forme.

The doctor assured me that I was in good shape.

Indirect speech in the past.

7

Si tu dors mieux, tu seras en meilleure forme.

If you sleep better, you will be in better shape.

Conditional 'Si' clause with future tense.

8

L'équipe de football semble en bonne forme pour le match.

The football team seems in good shape for the match.

Collective noun 'L'équipe' is singular.

1

Malgré la crise, l'entreprise reste en bonne forme financière.

Despite the crisis, the company remains in good financial shape.

Metaphorical use for finance.

2

Il est en bonne forme, tant physiquement que mentalement.

He is in good shape, both physically and mentally.

Correlative conjunction 'tant... que'.

3

On peut dire que son projet est en bonne forme.

One can say that his project is in good shape.

Abstract use for a project.

4

Le coach a souligné l'importance d'être en bonne forme avant le tournoi.

The coach emphasized the importance of being in good shape before the tournament.

Noun 'importance' + de + infinitive.

5

Elle a maintenu une bonne forme tout au long de l'année.

She maintained good shape throughout the year.

Temporal phrase 'tout au long de'.

6

Il ne suffit pas d'être en bonne forme, il faut aussi être motivé.

It's not enough to be in good shape, one must also be motivated.

Negative 'Il ne suffit pas de'.

7

Son état de santé général est en bonne forme selon les analyses.

His general state of health is in good shape according to the tests.

Formal medical context.

8

Ils ont tout fait pour rester en bonne forme pendant le confinement.

They did everything to stay in good shape during the lockdown.

Past tense 'ont tout fait'.

1

La vitalité d'une démocratie dépend d'une presse en bonne forme.

The vitality of a democracy depends on a press in good shape.

Political metaphor.

2

Il est impératif que les athlètes soient en bonne forme pour les JO.

It is imperative that the athletes are in good shape for the Olympics.

Subjunctive 'soient' after 'Il est impératif que'.

3

L'œuvre de cet artiste témoigne d'une créativité en bonne forme.

This artist's work testifies to a creativity in good shape.

Artistic metaphor.

4

Elle a su conserver une forme olympique au fil des décennies.

She managed to maintain Olympic shape over the decades.

Idiomatic 'forme olympique'.

5

Rien ne vaut une promenade matinale pour se sentir en bonne forme.

Nothing beats a morning walk to feel in good shape.

Expression 'Rien ne vaut'.

6

La structure du bâtiment semble en bonne forme après les rénovations.

The building's structure seems in good shape after the renovations.

Technical/Architectural use.

7

Il est rare de voir un marché boursier en si bonne forme.

It is rare to see a stock market in such good shape.

Economic context with 'si' for emphasis.

8

On sent que son esprit est en bonne forme, vif et alerte.

One feels that his mind is in good shape, sharp and alert.

Mental health context.

1

L'analyse post-opératoire confirme que le patient est en parfaite forme.

The post-operative analysis confirms that the patient is in perfect shape.

Highest level of formal medical reporting.

2

La pérennité de l'institution repose sur une gouvernance en bonne forme.

The longevity of the institution rests on a governance in good shape.

Complex institutional vocabulary.

3

Il a fallu des années pour que le secteur industriel soit à nouveau en bonne forme.

It took years for the industrial sector to be in good shape again.

Subjunctive and temporal complexity.

4

Sa plume, toujours en bonne forme, continue de charmer les lecteurs.

His pen (writing style), always in good shape, continues to charm readers.

Literary metonymy ('la plume').

5

Il s'agit de maintenir un écosystème en bonne forme pour les générations futures.

It is a matter of maintaining an ecosystem in good shape for future generations.

Environmental/Scientific context.

6

L'équilibre budgétaire est le signe d'une administration en bonne forme.

A balanced budget is the sign of an administration in good shape.

Administrative/Political context.

7

Elle a traversé les épreuves en restant mentalement en bonne forme.

She went through the trials while staying mentally in good shape.

Resilience and mental health.

8

La syntaxe de ce texte n'est pas tout à fait en bonne forme.

The syntax of this text is not quite in good shape.

Metaphorical use for linguistics/writing.

Colocaciones comunes

rester en bonne forme
être en bonne forme physique
se sentir en bonne forme
paraître en bonne forme
remettre en bonne forme
garder une bonne forme
assez bonne forme
très bonne forme
une forme olympique
en bonne forme mentale

Frases Comunes

Être en forme

— To be fit or energetic. Very common.

Je suis en forme !

Remise en forme

— Fitness or getting back into shape. Often used for gyms.

Je vais dans un club de remise en forme.

Garder la forme

— To stay in shape. A common goal.

Elle fait du yoga pour garder la forme.

En pleine forme

— In great shape or full of beans.

Le bébé est en pleine forme.

Pas en forme

— Not feeling well or out of sorts.

Je ne suis pas très en forme ce soir.

La forme ?

— How are you? (Informal greeting).

Salut ! La forme ?

Éclatant de forme

— Radiating health and energy.

Il est éclatant de forme.

Retrouver la forme

— To get back in shape after a break or illness.

Il essaie de retrouver la forme.

Une petite forme

— Feeling a bit under the weather or low energy.

J'ai une petite forme aujourd'hui.

Perdre la forme

— To get out of shape.

Si tu arrêtes le sport, tu vas perdre la forme.

Se confunde a menudo con

en bonne forme vs en bon état

Used for objects, not people.

en bonne forme vs en bonne santé

Focuses on medicine/illness, not fitness.

en bonne forme vs dans une bonne forme

Incorrect preposition usage.

Modismos y expresiones

"Avoir la pêche"

— To be full of energy and spirits.

Depuis ses vacances, elle a la pêche !

Informal
"Péter le feu"

— To have incredible energy, to be bursting with health.

Ce matin, je pète le feu !

Informal
"Avoir la frite"

— Similar to 'avoir la pêche', to be energetic.

Tu as la frite aujourd'hui !

Informal
"Avoir la patate"

— Another variation of being very energetic.

On a la patate pour le match !

Informal
"Être frais comme un gardon"

— To be as fresh as a daisy/roach.

Après une douche, je suis frais comme un gardon.

Neutral
"Bon pied, bon œil"

— To be alert and in good health, especially for older people.

À 80 ans, il est toujours bon pied, bon œil.

Neutral
"Avoir un ressort"

— To have a spring in one's step.

Il a encore du ressort.

Neutral
"Être d'attaque"

— To be ready for action/work.

Je suis d'attaque pour commencer la journée.

Neutral
"Avoir du punch"

— To have energy and drive.

Cette équipe a vraiment du punch.

Neutral
"Tenir la forme"

— To keep fit or keep going.

Il faut tenir la forme pendant l'hiver.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

en bonne forme vs Forme

Looks like 'Form' (document).

In this context, it means 'shape/fitness'.

Remplissez ce formulaire (form) pour être en forme (shape).

en bonne forme vs Santé

Both relate to health.

Santé is the medical state; Forme is the energy/fitness state.

Il est en bonne santé mais pas en bonne forme.

en bonne forme vs État

Both mean 'state'.

État is for things or temporary conditions; Forme is for physical vitality.

La voiture est en bon état.

en bonne forme vs Figure

English 'figure' can mean body shape.

In French, 'figure' usually means 'face'.

Elle a une belle figure (face).

en bonne forme vs Condition

Both mean physical state.

Condition is more formal and often used in 'condition physique'.

Il est en bonne condition physique.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Je suis en bonne forme.

Je suis en bonne forme.

A2

S + V + pour + être en bonne forme.

Je nage pour être en bonne forme.

B1

S + se sentir + en bonne forme.

Elle se sent en bonne forme.

B1

S + sembler + en bonne forme.

Tu sembles en bonne forme.

B2

Malgré + N, S + être en bonne forme.

Malgré la fatigue, il est en bonne forme.

B2

Il est important de + rester en bonne forme.

Il est important de rester en bonne forme.

C1

Rien ne vaut + N + pour être en bonne forme.

Rien ne vaut le sport pour être en bonne forme.

C2

N (metaphor) + être en bonne forme.

La bourse est en bonne forme.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

la forme
le format
la formation
le formateur
le formalisme

Verbos

former
se former
reformuler
transformer
conformer

Adjetivos

formel
formable
formateur
difforme
uniforme

Relacionado

la santé
la vitalité
le sport
le bien-être
l'énergie
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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written French.

Errores comunes
  • Je suis dans bonne forme. → Je suis en bonne forme.

    The preposition 'en' is required in this fixed expression.

  • Il est en bon forme. → Il est en bonne forme.

    The adjective 'bonne' must be feminine to match 'forme'.

  • Ma voiture est en bonne forme. → Ma voiture est en bon état.

    'En bonne forme' is for people; 'en bon état' is for objects.

  • Je me sens bon forme. → Je me sens en bonne forme.

    Don't forget the preposition 'en'.

  • Ils sont en bonnes formes. → Ils sont en bonne forme.

    The phrase usually stays singular as a fixed locution.

Consejos

Fixed Gender

Remember that 'forme' is feminine. Even if a man is speaking, he says 'en bonne forme'.

Beyond 'Bien'

Use 'en bonne forme' to sound more specific than just saying 'Je vais bien'.

French Wellness

The French value 'la forme' as a balance of diet and activity. Use it to talk about lifestyle.

Nasal 'En'

Practice the nasal 'en' to avoid sounding too English.

Preposition 'En'

Always use 'en'. It's a common mistake to use 'dans'.

Avoir la pêche

Learn this idiom to sound like a native in informal settings.

Doctor's Visit

Expect to hear this phrase during a medical check-up.

Business Use

You can use it to describe a successful company or project.

Forme vs Santé

Forme = Energy/Fitness. Santé = Medical Health.

Verbs to Use

Pair it with 'être', 'rester', 'se sentir', or 'paraître'.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'Bon' (Good) 'Form' (Shape) in an 'En' (Envelope). You are 'in' your best 'form'.

Asociación visual

Imagine a bright green checkmark over a person running. The green represents 'bonne' and the running person represents 'forme'.

Word Web

Santé Sport Énergie Vitalité Muscle Cœur Vitesse Endurance

Desafío

Try to use 'en bonne forme' in three different sentences today: one about yourself, one about a friend, and one about a famous athlete.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Latin 'forma', meaning shape, model, or beauty. The preposition 'en' comes from the Latin 'in'.

Significado original: To be in a specific shape or appearance.

Romance (Latin root).

Contexto cultural

Generally a very positive and safe phrase. Avoid using it to comment on someone's weight directly unless they bring up their fitness.

In the US/UK, we might say 'fit' or 'in shape', but 'en bonne forme' is slightly more holistic and less about just muscles.

Used in many French fitness magazines like 'Santé Magazine'. Commonly used by French tennis stars in interviews. A title of a popular French textbook for learners.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

At the Gym

  • Je veux être en bonne forme.
  • Comment rester en bonne forme ?
  • Il est en très bonne forme.
  • Bonne séance !

At the Doctor

  • Je me sens en bonne forme.
  • Est-ce que je suis en bonne forme ?
  • Vous paraissez en bonne forme.
  • Les résultats sont bons.

Sports Commentary

  • Le joueur est en bonne forme.
  • Il n'est pas en bonne forme aujourd'hui.
  • Une forme éclatante.
  • Prêt pour le match.

Social Gatherings

  • Tu as l'air en bonne forme !
  • Toute la famille est en bonne forme.
  • C'est bien de te voir en forme.
  • On garde la forme !

Workplace

  • L'équipe est en bonne forme.
  • Le projet est en bonne forme.
  • Rester en bonne forme malgré le stress.
  • Un esprit sain dans un corps sain.

Inicios de conversación

"Qu'est-ce que tu fais pour rester en bonne forme ?"

"Est-ce que tu te sens en bonne forme ce matin ?"

"Tu trouves que les Français sont en bonne forme en général ?"

"Quel est ton secret pour être toujours en si bonne forme ?"

"Est-il difficile de rester en bonne forme avec ton travail ?"

Temas para diario

Décris une journée où tu t'es senti en pleine forme.

Quels sont tes objectifs pour être en meilleure forme physique cette année ?

Pourquoi est-il important pour toi d'être en bonne forme ?

Comment ton alimentation influence-t-elle ta forme ?

Raconte une fois où tu n'étais pas du tout en bonne forme.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, you must always say 'en bonne forme' because 'bonne' agrees with the feminine noun 'forme', not the person.

'En forme' is shorter and very common in casual speech. 'En bonne forme' is slightly more descriptive and formal.

No, for a car or object, use 'en bon état'.

You say 'Je me remets en forme'.

Yes, you can say 'en bonne forme mentale', though it's less common than the physical sense.

The most direct opposite is 'en mauvaise forme' or simply 'pas en forme'.

No, that is an anglicism. Always use 'en'.

Yes, it is neutral and polite.

It means 'in great shape' or 'full of energy'.

It is a nasal vowel. Don't pronounce the 'n' against your teeth.

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Ponte a prueba 187 preguntas

writing

Translate to French: 'I am in good shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'She is in very good shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'Are you in good shape?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'We must stay in good shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'He feels in good shape today.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using 'en bonne forme' and 'parce que'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'My parents are in good shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'It is important to be in good shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'He seems in good shape for his age.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'I want to get back in shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'The company is in good financial shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'After the holidays, I am in great shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'She is not in good shape because she is sick.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'Nothing beats a walk to stay in shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'Stay in good shape!' (plural)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a short paragraph (3 sentences) about your fitness routine using the word.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'The athletes are in perfect shape.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'I hope you are in good shape.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'He is in good shape, both physically and mentally.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to French: 'Is the project in good shape?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say in French: 'I am in good shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say in French: 'Are you in good shape?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say in French: 'She is in great shape!'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say in French: 'I feel in good shape today.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say in French: 'We must stay in shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe your fitness routine in two sentences using the phrase.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Ask a friend if they are in shape after their vacation.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Compliment someone on looking healthy.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'I am not in good shape because I am tired.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The team seems in good shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why you go to the gym.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'My grandmother is in very good shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'I want to be in better shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'He is in shape, both physically and mentally.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Stay in shape!' to a group.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'I have the peach!' (idiom for energy)

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'It's hard to stay in shape in winter.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The doctor says I'm in good shape.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'You look like you're in Olympic shape!'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'I'm bursting with energy!' (idiom)

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to the description: 'Marie fait du jogging tous les matins et mange équilibré.' Is Marie 'en bonne forme'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Je me sens très fatigué aujourd'hui.' Is this person 'en bonne forme'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Le médecin a dit que tout va bien.' Is the patient 'en bonne forme'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Il a la pêche ce matin !' Is he energetic?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Je me remets en forme doucement.' Is the person already in perfect shape?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'L'entreprise est en pleine croissance.' Is the company 'en bonne forme'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Elle a une petite forme aujourd'hui.' Is she at peak energy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Tu parais en bonne forme !' Is this a compliment?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Il faut s'entraîner pour le marathon.' Is this for being 'en bonne forme'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Je ne suis pas très en forme ce soir.' Does the person want to go out?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Le joueur est blessé, il n'est pas en forme.' Can he play?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Mange des légumes pour la forme.' Why eat vegetables?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Elle est éclatante de forme.' Is she healthy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'Garder la forme est mon objectif.' What is the goal?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: 'On est d'attaque !' Are they ready?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 187 correct

Perfect score!

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