Meaning
Used to describe something aesthetically pleasing.
Cultural Background
The French often use 'C'est joli' as a polite but non-committal compliment. If they really love something, they might upgrade to 'C'est magnifique'. In Quebec, you might hear 'C'est beau' used more frequently than 'C'est joli' for everyday items, though both are understood. Using 'C'est du joli' is a common way for parents to scold children for making a mess.
The 'C'est' Rule
Always use 'joli' (masculine) after 'C'est', no matter what you are looking at!
Avoid for People
Calling a man 'joli' can sound a bit feminine. Use 'beau' for men and 'jolie' for women.
Meaning
Used to describe something aesthetically pleasing.
The 'C'est' Rule
Always use 'joli' (masculine) after 'C'est', no matter what you are looking at!
Avoid for People
Calling a man 'joli' can sound a bit feminine. Use 'beau' for men and 'jolie' for women.
Understatement
If a French person says 'C'est joli', they might actually think it's amazing. They just don't like to over-exaggerate.
Test Yourself
How do you say 'It's pretty' when looking at a painting?
Regarde ce tableau {le|m} !
'Joli' is the correct adjective for visual beauty.
Complete the sentence with the correct form.
Cette fleur est ______. (pretty)
When using 'est' with a feminine subject (Cette fleur), the adjective must agree.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You see a beautiful sunset.
Sunsets are visual, so 'joli' fits best.
What would you say to a friend showing you their new shoes?
Ami: 'Tu aimes mes chaussures ?' Vous: 'Oui, ______ !'
A compliment on appearance is expected.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'C'est joli'
Objects
- • Vase
- • Jewelry
- • Gift
Nature
- • Flowers
- • Garden
- • Sunset
Fashion
- • Dress
- • Scarf
- • Shoes
Practice Bank
4 exercisesRegarde ce tableau {le|m} !
'Joli' is the correct adjective for visual beauty.
Cette fleur est ______. (pretty)
When using 'est' with a feminine subject (Cette fleur), the adjective must agree.
You see a beautiful sunset.
Sunsets are visual, so 'joli' fits best.
Ami: 'Tu aimes mes chaussures ?' Vous: 'Oui, ______ !'
A compliment on appearance is expected.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIt's rare. Usually, 'beau' is used for men. 'Joli' for a man might imply he has delicate or 'pretty' features.
In casual conversation for small objects or clothes, yes. 'Beau' is more formal or for grand things like mountains.
Yes, if not using 'C'est'. For example: 'Ces fleurs sont jolies'.
Yes, it is very common and natural.
It is masculine. The feminine is 'jolie'.
The most common opposite is 'laid' (ugly) or 'moche' (informal).
Related Phrases
C'est beau
similarIt's beautiful
C'est mignon
similarIt's cute
C'est magnifique
builds onIt's magnificent
C'est pas mal
similarIt's not bad
