Meaning
Used to describe something of large size.
Cultural Background
In Paris, space is so limited that 'C'est grand' is the ultimate compliment for an apartment. Quebecers might use 'C'est gros' more frequently for physical objects than Europeans do. The term 'Grand Siècle' refers to the 17th century under Louis XIV, a time of 'greatness'.
The Nasal Sound
Make sure to vibrate the air in your nose for the 'an' in grand.
Silent D
Never pronounce the 'd' in 'C'est grand' unless you are a beginner trying to be extra clear.
Meaning
Used to describe something of large size.
The Nasal Sound
Make sure to vibrate the air in your nose for the 'an' in grand.
Silent D
Never pronounce the 'd' in 'C'est grand' unless you are a beginner trying to be extra clear.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form for: 'The house is big.'
La maison est ____.
'Maison' is feminine singular, so the adjective must be 'grande'.
Complete the reaction: 'Wow, it's big!'
Waouh, c'est ____ !
After 'C'est', we use the masculine singular form.
Match the opposites.
Opposites
'Petit' is the direct opposite of 'Grand'.
In which situation would you say 'C'est trop grand'?
Situation
'Trop grand' means 'too big'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Grand vs Petit
Practice Bank
4 exercisesLa maison est ____.
'Maison' is feminine singular, so the adjective must be 'grande'.
Waouh, c'est ____ !
After 'C'est', we use the masculine singular form.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
'Petit' is the direct opposite of 'Grand'.
Situation
'Trop grand' means 'too big'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it means 'tall'. 'Il est grand' means 'He is tall'.
It is 'grande'. You pronounce the 'd' in this version.
Yes, it is a very common and polite way to react to a space.
Yes, in contexts like 'Un grand film' (A great movie).
Say 'C'est très grand'.
Yes, 'grands' or 'grandes', but the 's' is silent.
Related Phrases
C'est énorme
similarIt's huge
C'est petit
contrastIt's small
Un grand homme
builds onA great man
