Meaning
To state that something is free or very cheap.
Cultural Background
In France, this phrase is often used to soften advice, making it sound less like a command and more like a suggestion. In Quebec, the phrase is used similarly, but you might hear more informal variants like 'Ça mange pas de pain'. Belgian French speakers use this phrase frequently in professional settings to maintain a polite, non-confrontational tone. Swiss French speakers value precision; they use this phrase to highlight that a task is efficient and low-cost.
Drop the 'ne'
In casual conversation, French speakers often drop the 'ne'. 'Ça coûte rien' is perfectly acceptable and sounds very natural.
Use it to be polite
Using this phrase makes your suggestions sound less pushy. It's a great way to be a polite advisor.
Meaning
To state that something is free or very cheap.
Drop the 'ne'
In casual conversation, French speakers often drop the 'ne'. 'Ça coûte rien' is perfectly acceptable and sounds very natural.
Use it to be polite
Using this phrase makes your suggestions sound less pushy. It's a great way to be a polite advisor.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct preposition.
Ça ne coûte rien ___ essayer.
The phrase requires 'de' before an infinitive verb.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct version.
In French, 'rien' replaces 'pas' in negative sentences.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Je ne sais pas si je dois postuler. B: ___________ !
This is the most encouraging response for someone hesitant.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You want to encourage a friend to ask for a raise.
This phrase is the perfect way to encourage someone to take a low-risk action.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesÇa ne coûte rien ___ essayer.
The phrase requires 'de' before an infinitive verb.
Choose the correct version.
In French, 'rien' replaces 'pas' in negative sentences.
A: Je ne sais pas si je dois postuler. B: ___________ !
This is the most encouraging response for someone hesitant.
You want to encourage a friend to ask for a raise.
This phrase is the perfect way to encourage someone to take a low-risk action.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, that would sound sarcastic.
It is neutral and works in almost any situation.
Yes, if you follow it with a verb.
'C'est gratuit' is only for money. 'Ça ne coûte rien' is for money and effort.
Yes, learners often add 'pas' because they are used to 'ne...pas'.
Yes, it is perfectly fine in professional emails.
No, it is actually a very polite way to give advice.
Yes, it is common there too.
No, it refers to actions or things.
It is grammatically incorrect.
No, it is standard French.
It is a soft, guttural sound in the back of the throat.
Related Phrases
Ça mange pas de pain
synonymIt doesn't eat bread (it costs nothing).
Il n'y a pas de risque
similarThere is no risk.
C'est gratuit
similarIt is free.
Pourquoi pas ?
builds onWhy not?
