Meaning
Used to express strong disapproval or that something is very bad.
Cultural Background
In France, saying 'C'est terrible' is a standard part of 'le râlage' (complaining). It's often used to bond over shared frustrations. In Quebec, you might also hear 'C'est de la valeur' to express that something is a pity, but 'C'est terrible' remains widely understood. In Francophone Africa, 'terrible' can sometimes be used as an intensifier for something impressive, though the negative meaning is still primary.
The Sympathy Shortcut
If you don't know what to say when someone complains, just nod and say 'Ah, c'est terrible'. It works 90% of the time.
The 'Pas' Trap
Never use 'C'est pas terrible' to compliment someone's work. They will be offended!
Meaning
Used to express strong disapproval or that something is very bad.
The Sympathy Shortcut
If you don't know what to say when someone complains, just nod and say 'Ah, c'est terrible'. It works 90% of the time.
The 'Pas' Trap
Never use 'C'est pas terrible' to compliment someone's work. They will be offended!
Test Yourself
Complete the reaction to the bad news.
— J'ai perdu mon téléphone. — Oh non, ______ terrible !
We use 'C'est' to react to a situation.
Which situation matches 'C'est terrible'?
Select the best context:
'C'est terrible' is for negative situations.
What does 'C'est pas terrible' mean?
Choose the meaning:
This is a common French understatement for something mediocre or bad.
Finish the dialogue.
A: Il y a une tempête dehors. B: Oui, le temps est ______.
Terrible describes the bad weather.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'C'est terrible'
Situations
- • Bad Weather
- • Bad News
- • Poor Quality
- • Accidents
Terrible vs. Pas Terrible
Practice Bank
4 exercises— J'ai perdu mon téléphone. — Oh non, ______ terrible !
We use 'C'est' to react to a situation.
Select the best context:
'C'est terrible' is for negative situations.
Choose the meaning:
This is a common French understatement for something mediocre or bad.
A: Il y a une tempête dehors. B: Oui, le temps est ______.
Terrible describes the bad weather.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIn very old slang or specific literary contexts, it could mean 'formidable' (great), but in 99% of modern conversations, it is negative.
Yes, if you are reacting to something genuinely bad mentioned by the interviewer, but 'C'est regrettable' sounds more professional.
'Affreux' is slightly more visual and intense, often used for things that are physically ugly or morally disgusting.
Use 'C'est pas si grave' or 'C'est pas si mal'.
No, when using 'C'est terrible', the adjective is always masculine singular because 'ce' is neutral.
No, it is neutral and can be used with anyone.
Related Phrases
C'est affreux
synonymIt's awful
C'est pas terrible
similarIt's not that great
C'est nul
informalIt sucks
C'est dommage
similarIt's a pity
