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A1 pronoun #6,500 most common 12 min read

ceux-ci

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips ceux-ci in 30 Seconds

Explanation ceux-ci in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to navigate the world of French pronouns. Think of 'ceux-ci' as a very useful pointing word. Imagine you are at a market and you see two piles of apples (les fruits - masculine). You want the ones right in front of you. Instead of saying 'les fruits' again, you just point and say 'ceux-ci.' It’s the French way of saying 'these ones.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar rules. Just remember two things: 1. You are talking about more than one thing (plural). 2. Those things are masculine. 3. They are close to you. It's like having a laser pointer in your vocabulary. You'll mostly use it in simple sentences like 'Je veux ceux-ci' (I want these ones) or 'Regarde ceux-ci' (Look at these ones). It helps you interact with your environment without needing a huge vocabulary of specific nouns. If you can point to it and it's a 'masculine' group, 'ceux-ci' is your best friend. It makes you sound much more natural than just saying 'ça' (that) for everything. Practice by looking at groups of objects around your room—books (livres), pens (stylos), or shoes (souliers)—and saying 'ceux-ci' as you touch them. This physical connection will help the word stick in your memory.

As an A2 learner, you are moving beyond simple pointing and starting to use 'ceux-ci' to make your sentences smoother. You now know that repeating the same noun over and over makes your French sound repetitive. 'Ceux-ci' allows you to replace masculine plural nouns you've already mentioned. For example, if you say 'J'aime les biscuits. Ceux-ci sont délicieux,' you are using 'ceux-ci' to refer back to the biscuits. At this level, you should also start to notice the difference between 'ceux-ci' (these ones here) and 'ceux-là' (those ones there). This contrast is very common when you are comparing two groups of things. You might say, 'Ceux-ci sont rouges, mais ceux-là sont verts.' This shows you can organize information in your head and express it clearly. You'll also encounter 'ceux-ci' in short dialogues and basic readings. Start paying attention to the gender of nouns; if the noun is feminine (like 'les chaises'), you can't use 'ceux-ci.' This is a great time to reinforce your knowledge of noun genders. The more you use 'ceux-ci' to replace masculine nouns, the more 'French' your brain will start to feel. It’s about building efficiency in your speech.

At the B1 level, you are becoming more comfortable with intermediate grammar, and 'ceux-ci' starts to play a role in more detailed descriptions. You are now expected to use it not just for physical objects, but also for abstract concepts. For instance, if you are discussing 'les problèmes' or 'les avantages' of a situation, you can use 'ceux-ci' to refer to the specific ones you just listed. 'Il y a plusieurs avantages à ce plan ; ceux-ci incluent la rapidité et le coût.' Here, 'ceux-ci' makes your transition from a general statement to specific details much more professional. You should also be aware of the 'latter/former' rule, although you might not use it perfectly yet. In a text, if you mention two groups of masculine nouns, 'ceux-ci' will point to the one you mentioned most recently. This is a key skill for reading comprehension at this level. You'll see this in news articles and short stories. You should also be careful not to confuse 'ceux-ci' with 'ceux qui' or 'ceux de.' Remember that 'ceux-ci' is a complete unit—it doesn't need anything after it to make sense. Practice writing short paragraphs comparing two sets of ideas or objects, using 'ceux-ci' and 'ceux-là' to keep the reader oriented. This will greatly improve the logical flow of your writing.

By the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of 'ceux-ci' as a tool for sophisticated textual organization. At this stage, the distinction between 'ceux-ci' (the latter) and 'ceux-là' (the former) becomes a hallmark of your writing style. In an argumentative essay (compte-rendu or essai), you can use these pronouns to refer back to complex masculine plural subjects without any ambiguity. For example, 'Le gouvernement a proposé deux nouveaux décrets ; ceux-ci visent à réduire la pollution, tandis que ceux-là concernent les transports.' This level of precision is exactly what examiners look for in B2 exams like the DELF. You are also expected to handle 'ceux-ci' in more formal spoken contexts, such as a presentation or a debate. You should be able to use it to highlight specific evidence or points you've just made. Furthermore, you should be sensitive to the register; while 'ceux-là' might be used loosely in casual speech, you know that 'ceux-ci' adds a layer of formal clarity. You might also encounter it in more complex literary texts where the 'proximity' is purely psychological or temporal, referring to 'these recent times' or 'these current events.' Mastery at B2 means using 'ceux-ci' not just correctly, but strategically to guide your listener or reader through your logic.

At the C1 level, your use of 'ceux-ci' should be near-native in its nuance and placement. You understand that 'ceux-ci' is not just a grammatical necessity but a stylistic choice that affects the rhythm and focus of a sentence. You can use it to create 'deictic centering,' where you bring specific ideas or objects into the immediate 'foreground' of the reader's attention. In high-level academic or professional writing, you use 'ceux-ci' to manage multiple antecedents with grace. You are also aware of the historical and legal weight the word can carry; in legal documents or formal contracts, 'ceux-ci' is used to bind the text to specific previously defined terms. You can distinguish between the spatial use (pointing to something) and the anaphoric use (pointing back to text) effortlessly. At this level, you might also explore how 'ceux-ci' interacts with other complex structures, like the passive voice or the subjunctive, ensuring that gender and number agreement remain flawless even in long, convoluted sentences. You should also be able to critique the use of demonstratives in literature, noting how an author uses 'ceux-ci' to create a sense of intimacy or immediacy. Your goal is to make 'ceux-ci' an invisible but powerful part of your rhetorical architecture, providing clarity without drawing attention to the grammar itself.

At the C2 level, 'ceux-ci' is a tool you wield with total mastery in any context, from the most abstract philosophical treatise to the most technical scientific report. You understand its role in 'cohesion' and 'coherence' at a profound level. You can use 'ceux-ci' to resolve potential ambiguities in sentences where multiple masculine plural nouns might otherwise cause confusion. For instance, in a sentence discussing 'les rapports, les analyses et les commentaires,' you can use 'ceux-ci' to specifically isolate the 'commentaires' for further elaboration. You are also comfortable with the word's use in archaic or highly formal literary styles, where it might be used in ways that modern speech has simplified. You can navigate the subtle play between 'ceux-ci' and other demonstratives to create a specific 'voice' in your writing—perhaps one that is authoritative, precise, or elegantly old-fashioned. At this stage, you are not just using the word; you are playing with the spatial and temporal expectations it creates in the reader's mind. Whether you are translating complex legal texts or writing a doctoral thesis, 'ceux-ci' is a vital component of your ability to construct intricate, logical, and beautiful French prose. You have reached a point where the distinction between 'this' and 'that' in French is as natural to you as it is in your native language, but with the added layer of French grammatical elegance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

ceux-ci in 30 Seconds

Ceux-ci is a masculine plural pronoun meaning 'these ones' or 'these.'
It points to items that are physically close or the most recently mentioned.
It must always agree with a masculine plural noun it is replacing.
It is the opposite of 'ceux-là,' which means 'those ones' (farther away).

The French pronoun ceux-ci is a demonstrative pronoun that specifically refers to a group of masculine plural nouns. In English, we typically translate it as 'these ones' or simply 'these.' It is composed of the masculine plural demonstrative pronoun 'ceux' and the proximal suffix '-ci,' which is derived from 'ici' (here). This suffix serves a critical function: it indicates that the objects or people being discussed are physically close to the speaker or were the most recently mentioned items in a conversation or text. Understanding ceux-ci requires a grasp of the French system of spatial and textual deixis, which distinguishes between what is 'here' and what is 'there.'

Grammatical Category: Demonstrative Pronoun (Masculine Plural, Proximal)
Core Function: To replace a masculine plural noun and indicate proximity or the latter of two choices.

In everyday usage, ceux-ci is indispensable when you want to avoid repeating a noun while pointing out specific items. For instance, if you are looking at several pairs of shoes (les souliers, masculine) and you want to indicate the ones right in front of you, you would use this pronoun. It provides a level of precision that English often handles through context or the addition of the word 'ones.' Without ceux-ci, French sentences would become repetitive and clunky, forcing speakers to restate the noun constantly.

J'ai examiné tous les dossiers, et je pense que ceux-ci sont les plus urgents.

Beyond physical proximity, ceux-ci plays a vital role in formal writing and rhetoric. When a writer mentions two different groups of masculine nouns, ceux-ci refers to the latter (the one mentioned last), while ceux-là refers to the former (the one mentioned first). This logical mapping allows for clear, sophisticated argumentation without ambiguity. It acts as a cognitive anchor, helping the reader navigate complex descriptions by clearly linking pronouns back to their specific antecedents based on their 'distance' in the text.

Historically, the evolution of ceux-ci reflects the transition from Latin's complex demonstrative system (hic, iste, ille) into the more streamlined French system. The addition of the '-ci' suffix became standardized as the language sought ways to regain the spatial distinctions that were lost when Latin's case system collapsed. Today, it remains a hallmark of standard and formal French, though in very casual speech, speakers might sometimes drop the suffix or use 'ceux-là' more generically, though this is technically less precise.

Parmi tous ces gâteaux, ceux-ci au chocolat ont l'air délicieux.

Usage Frequency: High in written French; moderate to high in spoken French depending on the need for contrast.

In summary, ceux-ci is more than just a translation for 'these.' It is a tool for spatial organization, textual clarity, and stylistic elegance. Whether you are pointing to a tray of croissants at a bakery or distinguishing between legal statutes in a courtroom, this pronoun allows you to specify 'these ones right here' with grammatical certainty and native-like flow.

Using ceux-ci correctly involves two primary considerations: gender agreement and spatial/logical positioning. Because it is a pronoun, it must always take the place of a noun that has already been established in the conversation or text. This noun must be masculine and plural. If you are talking about 'les livres' (the books), 'les enfants' (the children), or 'les défis' (the challenges), ceux-ci is your go-to tool for pointing at the ones nearby.

Rule 1: The Antecedent: The noun being replaced must be masculine plural. You cannot use 'ceux-ci' to replace 'les voitures' (feminine).
Rule 2: Proximity: Use '-ci' for things that are physically closer to you or are the most recent items mentioned in a list.

Consider a scenario in a store. You are looking at two groups of hats (les chapeaux). You might say to the clerk, 'J'aime bien tous les chapeaux, mais ceux-ci sont mes préférés.' Here, ceux-ci points specifically to the hats you are perhaps holding or standing right next to. If you wanted to point to hats on a far shelf, you would switch to ceux-là. This contrast is the heart of demonstrative pronoun usage in French.

Regardez ces stylos ; ceux-ci écrivent en bleu, tandis que ceux-là écrivent en noir.

In complex sentences, ceux-ci functions as a 'latter' marker. If you mention 'les oranges et les citrons,' ceux-ci refers to the lemons (the last mentioned) and 'ceux-là' refers to the oranges (the first mentioned). This is a common feature of academic and journalistic writing. It prevents the 'ambiguous pronoun' trap that often plagues English writers who rely too heavily on 'they' or 'these' without clear antecedents.

Syntactically, ceux-ci acts as the subject or object of a verb. It can be followed by a relative clause, though usually, the simple form 'ceux' is preferred when followed by 'qui' or 'que.' For example, 'Ceux qui sont ici' is more common than 'Ceux-ci qui sont ici,' because the suffix '-ci' already implies the location. Therefore, ceux-ci is most often used as a standalone subject or at the end of a phrase to create a clear distinction.

Il y a plusieurs chemins possibles, mais ceux-ci semblent plus courts.

Finally, remember that ceux-ci can also refer to people, provided the group is either all male or a mixed-gender group (which defaults to masculine in French grammar). If you are referring to a group of boys standing near you, you can say 'ceux-ci' to distinguish them from another group further away. This versatility makes it an essential part of the French speaker's toolkit for navigating both physical and social spaces.

While ceux-ci might seem formal to a beginner, you will encounter it in a wide variety of real-world contexts. One of the most common places is in retail and commerce. Imagine a salesperson at a high-end boutique in Paris. When presenting options to a customer, they will use ceux-ci to highlight the items on the counter. 'Nous avons plusieurs modèles ; ceux-ci sont en soie.' It adds a touch of professional polish and spatial clarity to the transaction.

Museums and Galleries: Guides use it to point out specific artifacts or paintings in a collection: 'Parmi les tableaux de Monet, ceux-ci furent peints à Giverny.'
News and Media: Journalists use it to refer to specific data points or groups of people mentioned earlier in a report.

In the culinary world, specifically in French bakeries (boulangeries) or markets, ceux-ci is heard constantly. A customer might point to a specific row of éclairs and say, 'Je vais prendre ceux-ci.' The '-ci' acts like a finger pointing directly at the choice, ensuring there is no confusion between the chocolate ones and the coffee ones. It is a word of selection and preference.

Le sommelier a suggéré plusieurs vins, et ceux-ci s'accordent parfaitement avec le poisson.

You will also hear ceux-ci in educational settings. A professor might be comparing different philosophical theories or mathematical theorems. To keep the lecture organized, they will use 'ceux-ci' to refer to the theorem they just wrote on the board, contrasting it with 'ceux-là'—the ones from the previous week's lesson. It serves as a linguistic pointer that keeps the students' attention focused on the immediate subject matter.

In literature and law, the word is ubiquitous. French legal code is famous for its precision, and demonstrative pronouns like ceux-ci are used to ensure that there is no doubt which 'articles' or 'individuals' a particular clause refers to. When reading a French novel, you'll notice authors using it to manage multiple characters or objects in a scene, providing a cinematic sense of depth and focus that guides the reader's mental eye.

Il y a deux types de contrats : ceux-ci sont temporaires, les autres sont permanents.

Whether you are watching a French film where a detective is examining clues or listening to a podcast about history, ceux-ci will appear whenever there is a need to distinguish 'these' from 'those.' It is a fundamental building block of clear, articulate French communication across all levels of society.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with ceux-ci is failing to respect gender agreement. Because English uses the gender-neutral 'these,' learners often forget that French requires a different pronoun for feminine nouns. If you are talking about 'les fleurs' (feminine plural), using ceux-ci is grammatically incorrect; you must use 'celles-ci.' This error is particularly common when the gender of the noun isn't immediately obvious or when the speaker is translating directly from English in their head.

Mistake 1: Gender Mismatch: Using 'ceux-ci' for feminine nouns like 'tables' or 'idées'.
Mistake 2: Confusing -ci and -là: Using 'ceux-ci' for objects that are far away, where 'ceux-là' would be appropriate.

Another common pitfall is the confusion between ceux-ci (the pronoun) and ces (the adjective). Remember that ces must be followed by a noun ('ces livres'), while ceux-ci stands alone ('je veux ceux-ci'). Beginners often try to combine them, saying things like 'ces ceux-ci,' which is nonsensical in French. You must choose one: either the adjective with the noun, or the pronoun that replaces the noun entirely.

Incorrect: J'aime ces ceux-ci livres.
Correct: J'aime ceux-ci.

In spoken French, there is a tendency to over-rely on ceux-là (those ones) even for things that are close by. While you will be understood, using ceux-ci correctly demonstrates a higher level of fluency and attention to detail. Conversely, using ceux-ci when you are pointing to something across the street sounds odd to a native speaker, as it implies the objects are within arm's reach or were just mentioned in the very last breath.

Learners also struggle with the 'latter/former' distinction in writing. In English, we often repeat the noun to be clear, but in French, ceux-ci and ceux-là are the preferred method. If you use ceux-ci to refer to the first item mentioned in a list of two, you will confuse your reader. Practice mapping 'ci' to 'closest in the text' (the last one mentioned) and 'là' to 'further back in the text' (the first one mentioned).

Attention : Si vous parlez des chiens et des chats, ceux-ci désigne les chats.

Finally, watch out for the pluralization. Some learners mistakenly use 'celui-ci' (singular) when they mean 'ceux-ci' (plural), or vice versa. Always check your antecedent: is it one book or many? One boy or a group? This grammatical alignment is the foundation of clear communication in French and will help you avoid the most common 'foreign' sounding errors.

To master ceux-ci, it is helpful to see it within the context of its 'siblings' in the demonstrative pronoun family. The most obvious alternative is ceux-là. While ceux-ci means 'these ones,' ceux-là means 'those ones.' The distinction is purely spatial or logical. In casual conversation, ceux-là is actually more common, and many French speakers use it as a default demonstrative pronoun regardless of distance. However, in formal contexts, the distinction remains sharp.

Ceux-là: The distal counterpart. Use it for things far away or mentioned first in a sequence.
Celles-ci: The feminine plural equivalent. Use it for feminine nouns like 'les voitures' or 'les fleurs'.

Another related word is the simple pronoun ceux. Unlike ceux-ci, the simple ceux cannot stand alone at the end of a sentence. It must be followed by a relative clause (starting with qui, que, dont) or a prepositional phrase (starting with de). For example, you would say 'ceux de mon frère' (the ones of my brother) or 'ceux qui chantent' (those who sing). Use ceux-ci when you don't have that extra information to add and just want to point.

J'ai perdu mes gants ; je vais utiliser ceux-ci en attendant.

In terms of adjectives, you have ces...-ci. This is a way to emphasize 'these' while still using the noun. For example, 'ces livres-ci' (these books here). This is a very close alternative to ceux-ci, but it requires you to keep the noun in the sentence. Use ceux-ci when you want to be more concise and the noun is already clear from the context. It's the difference between saying 'these books here' and 'these ones.'

Finally, consider lesquels. This is an interrogative or relative pronoun meaning 'which ones.' While ceux-ci is used to point, lesquels is used to ask or to link. If someone asks 'Lesquels veux-tu ?' (Which ones do you want?), you might answer 'Ceux-ci' (These ones). Understanding how these words interact in a dialogue will help you navigate choices and questions with much greater ease.

Parmi tous ces projets, ceux-ci sont les plus innovants.

By learning these alternatives, you see that ceux-ci is part of a precise system designed to eliminate confusion. Whether you are choosing between masculine/feminine, singular/plural, or near/far, the French language provides a specific word to ensure your meaning is perfectly clear.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The suffix '-ci' was originally a separate word used for emphasis, which eventually fused with the pronoun over centuries to create a single grammatical unit.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sø.si/

US /sø.si/

The stress is equal on both syllables, though the final '-si' often carries a slight rising intonation in questions.

Rhymes With

merci ainsi ici souci réussi ceux-ci celui-ci ceux-là (partial)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'x' in 'ceux' (it is silent).
Using an English 'oo' sound (like 'soo') instead of the French 'eu' sound.
Pronouncing 'ci' as 'chee' instead of 'see'.
Making the 'eu' sound too open, like 'e' in 'pet'.
Failing to link the two syllables smoothly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text as a pointer, though 'latter/former' logic takes some practice.

Writing 3/5

Requires careful attention to the gender and number of the antecedent.

Speaking 3/5

The 'eu' sound can be tricky for English speakers, and choosing between -ci and -là requires quick thinking.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear in speech, though the final '-ci' can be swallowed in fast conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ce ces ici masculin pluriel

Learn Next

ceux-là celles-ci celui-ci lequel dont

Advanced

celui qui ceux de lequel auquel duquel

Grammar to Know

Demonstrative Pronoun Agreement

Les gâteaux (masc. plur.) -> ceux-ci; Les tartes (fem. plur.) -> celles-ci.

Proximal vs. Distal Suffixes

Use -ci for 'here/near' and -là for 'there/far'.

Latter vs. Former in Text

In 'A et B', 'ceux-ci' refers to B and 'ceux-là' refers to A.

Substitution of Nouns

Instead of 'J'aime ces livres. Ces livres sont bons', say 'J'aime ces livres. Ceux-ci sont bons.'

Standalone Usage

'Ceux-ci' can be a subject or object and does not need a noun following it.

Examples by Level

Regarde ces stylos, je préfère ceux-ci.

Look at these pens, I prefer these ones.

'Stylos' is masculine plural, so we use 'ceux-ci'.

Prends ces livres, ceux-ci sont pour toi.

Take these books, these ones are for you.

'Livres' is masculine plural.

J'aime ces gâteaux, ceux-ci sont au chocolat.

I like these cakes, these ones are chocolate.

'Gâteaux' is masculine plural.

Voici tes dossiers, ceux-ci sont terminés.

Here are your files, these ones are finished.

'Dossiers' is masculine plural.

Il y a deux chemins, choisis ceux-ci.

There are two paths, choose these ones.

'Chemins' is masculine plural.

Tes sacs sont là, ceux-ci sont très lourds.

Your bags are there, these ones are very heavy.

'Sacs' is masculine plural.

Ces ballons sont beaux, ceux-ci sont bleus.

These balloons are beautiful, these ones are blue.

'Ballons' is masculine plural.

Où sont mes gants ? Ah, ceux-ci sont à moi.

Where are my gloves? Ah, these ones are mine.

'Gants' is masculine plural.

J'ai plusieurs chapeaux, mais ceux-ci me vont mieux.

I have several hats, but these ones fit me better.

'Chapeaux' is the masculine plural antecedent.

Il y a beaucoup de biscuits, mais ceux-ci sont trop sucrés.

There are many cookies, but these ones are too sweet.

'Biscuits' is masculine plural.

Regardez ces appartements ; ceux-ci ont un balcon.

Look at these apartments; these ones have a balcony.

'Appartements' is masculine plural.

Ces journaux sont vieux, ceux-ci datent d'hier.

These newspapers are old, these ones are from yesterday.

'Journaux' is masculine plural.

Parmi tous les sports, ceux-ci sont les plus dangereux.

Among all sports, these ones are the most dangerous.

'Sports' is masculine plural.

J'ai acheté des fruits, ceux-ci sont bien mûrs.

I bought some fruits, these ones are quite ripe.

'Fruits' is masculine plural.

Voici les nouveaux projets, ceux-ci sont prioritaires.

Here are the new projects, these ones are priority.

'Projets' is masculine plural.

Ces parapluies sont en promotion, ceux-ci coûtent dix euros.

These umbrellas are on sale, these ones cost ten euros.

'Parapluies' is masculine plural.

Le rapport mentionne divers risques, et ceux-ci doivent être évalués.

The report mentions various risks, and these must be evaluated.

'Risques' is the masculine plural antecedent.

Les enfants jouent dehors ; ceux-ci semblent s'amuser beaucoup.

The children are playing outside; these ones seem to be having a lot of fun.

Refers to the children mentioned just before.

Il y a deux types de moteurs : ceux-ci fonctionnent à l'électricité.

There are two types of engines: these ones run on electricity.

Used to specify one of the two types mentioned.

Nous avons reçu les colis, mais ceux-ci sont endommagés.

We received the packages, but these ones are damaged.

'Colis' is masculine plural.

Les critères sont stricts, et ceux-ci ne peuvent pas être modifiés.

The criteria are strict, and these cannot be changed.

'Critères' is masculine plural.

Plusieurs témoins ont parlé, et ceux-ci confirment la version des faits.

Several witnesses spoke, and these ones confirm the version of events.

'Témoins' is masculine plural.

On a analysé les résultats, et ceux-ci sont très encourageants.

We analyzed the results, and these ones are very encouraging.

'Résultats' is masculine plural.

Il reste quelques biscuits, ceux-ci sont faits maison.

There are a few cookies left, these ones are homemade.

'Biscuits' is masculine plural.

L'auteur compare les avantages et les inconvénients ; ceux-ci sont souvent négligés.

The author compares the advantages and disadvantages; the latter are often neglected.

'Ceux-ci' refers to 'les inconvénients' (the latter).

Les nouveaux règlements entreront en vigueur demain ; ceux-ci visent la sécurité routière.

The new regulations will take effect tomorrow; these aim for road safety.

'Règlements' is masculine plural.

Deux facteurs influencent le climat : ceux-ci sont l'activité solaire et la pollution.

Two factors influence the climate: these are solar activity and pollution.

Identifies the two 'facteurs' mentioned.

Bien que les prix augmentent, ceux-ci restent accessibles à la classe moyenne.

Although prices are rising, these remain accessible to the middle class.

'Prix' is masculine plural.

Les députés ont voté les amendements, bien que ceux-ci soient controversés.

The deputies voted for the amendments, although these are controversial.

'Amendements' is masculine plural.

Les chercheurs ont publié leurs travaux, et ceux-ci ont été largement cités.

The researchers published their work, and these have been widely cited.

'Travaux' is masculine plural.

Il existe différents types de sols ; ceux-ci sont particulièrement fertiles.

There are different types of soil; these ones are particularly fertile.

'Sols' is masculine plural.

Les enjeux sont considérables, et ceux-ci demandent une attention immédiate.

The stakes are considerable, and these demand immediate attention.

'Enjeux' is masculine plural.

Dans son traité, il distingue les désirs naturels des désirs vains ; ceux-ci nuisent à l'âme.

In his treatise, he distinguishes natural desires from vain desires; the latter harm the soul.

'Ceux-ci' refers to 'les désirs vains' (the latter).

Les paramètres de l'expérience ont été modifiés ; ceux-ci incluent désormais la température.

The parameters of the experiment have been modified; these now include temperature.

Precise reference to 'paramètres'.

L'étude souligne l'importance des facteurs socio-économiques ; ceux-ci prévalent souvent sur l'éducation.

The study highlights the importance of socio-economic factors; these often prevail over education.

Formal use of 'ceux-ci' to link back to 'facteurs'.

On a identifié plusieurs gènes responsables ; ceux-ci feront l'objet de recherches plus approfondies.

Several responsible genes have been identified; these will be the subject of further research.

'Gènes' is masculine plural.

L'artiste explore les contrastes de lumière ; ceux-ci créent une atmosphère mélancolique.

The artist explores light contrasts; these create a melancholy atmosphere.

'Contrastes' is masculine plural.

Les témoignages recueillis sont accablants ; ceux-ci ne laissent aucun doute sur la culpabilité.

The testimonies collected are overwhelming; these leave no doubt about the guilt.

'Témoignages' is masculine plural.

Le système repose sur des algorithmes complexes ; ceux-ci traitent les données en temps réel.

The system relies on complex algorithms; these process data in real time.

'Algorithmes' is masculine plural.

Les flux migratoires s'intensifient ; ceux-ci posent des défis logistiques sans précédent.

Migration flows are intensifying; these pose unprecedented logistical challenges.

'Flux' is masculine plural.

Le jurisconsulte analyse les rapports entre le droit civil et le droit pénal ; ceux-ci s'entrecroisent fréquemment.

The legal expert analyzes the relationships between civil law and criminal law; the latter frequently intersect.

Sophisticated use of 'ceux-ci' to refer to the 'rapports' or the two types of law.

Il convient de distinguer les impôts directs des impôts indirects, en ce que ceux-ci frappent la consommation.

It is necessary to distinguish direct taxes from indirect taxes, in that the latter hit consumption.

Classic legal/economic 'latter' reference to 'impôts indirects'.

Les phénomènes stellaires observés sont d'une rare intensité ; ceux-ci pourraient bouleverser nos modèles cosmologiques.

The observed stellar phenomena are of rare intensity; these could overturn our cosmological models.

High-level scientific discourse.

L'ontologie heideggérienne interroge les modes d'être ; ceux-ci ne sauraient être réduits à de simples objets.

Heideggerian ontology questions modes of being; these cannot be reduced to simple objects.

Abstract philosophical application of 'ceux-ci' (modes d'être).

Les sédiments accumulés au fil des millénaires révèlent des secrets géologiques ; ceux-ci témoignent de changements climatiques drastiques.

The sediments accumulated over millennia reveal geological secrets; these testify to drastic climatic changes.

Natural history context.

La dialectique hégélienne confronte la thèse et l'antithèse ; ceux-ci fusionnent finalement dans la synthèse.

Hegelian dialectic confronts the thesis and the antithesis; these finally merge in the synthesis.

Refers to the masculine plural concepts (even if 'thèse' is feminine, the group is treated as masculine or 'ceux-ci' refers to the elements).

Les paradigmes épistémologiques évoluent ; ceux-ci façonnent notre perception de la vérité scientifique.

Epistemological paradigms evolve; these shape our perception of scientific truth.

'Paradigmes' is masculine plural.

Les manuscrits exhumés sont d'une valeur inestimable ; ceux-ci jettent une lumière nouvelle sur la période médiévale.

The unearthed manuscripts are of inestimable value; these shed new light on the medieval period.

'Manuscrits' is masculine plural.

Common Collocations

parmi ceux-ci

tous ceux-ci

surtout ceux-ci

ceux-ci et ceux-là

même ceux-ci

hormis ceux-ci

contre ceux-ci

avec ceux-ci

ceux-ci étant

grâce à ceux-ci

Common Phrases

Prenez ceux-ci.

— A polite way to offer specific items to someone. It implies the items are within reach.

Voici les échantillons. Prenez ceux-ci.

Ceux-ci sont les miens.

— Used to claim ownership of specific items nearby. It distinguishes them from others.

Ne touchez pas à ces sacs, ceux-ci sont les miens.

Ceux-ci ou ceux-là ?

— A standard question for choosing between two groups of items. It asks 'These ones or those ones?'

Quels gâteaux voulez-vous ? Ceux-ci ou ceux-là ?

Regardez ceux-ci.

— Used to draw someone's attention to a group of objects nearby. It is very common in tours or shopping.

Regardez ceux-ci, ils sont faits à la main.

Ceux-ci font exception.

— Used to state that certain items do not follow a general rule. It highlights specific cases.

Tous les produits sont chers, mais ceux-ci font exception.

Parmi ceux-ci se trouvent...

— A formal way to introduce members of a group just mentioned. It is common in academic writing.

Nous avons plusieurs candidats ; parmi ceux-ci se trouvent deux experts.

Ceux-ci sont à éviter.

— A warning against specific items or behaviors. It is used in advice or instructions.

Il y a des champignons toxiques ; ceux-ci sont à éviter.

Comme ceux-ci.

— Used for comparison, meaning 'like these ones.' It provides a visual or contextual reference.

Je voudrais des chaussures comme ceux-ci.

Ceux-ci ne suffisent pas.

— Used to indicate that the items currently being considered are inadequate. It calls for more.

Nous avons des outils, mais ceux-ci ne suffisent pas pour le travail.

Ceux-ci sont plus récents.

— Used to compare the age or version of items. It implies 'these ones' are newer.

Ne lisez pas ces vieux rapports, ceux-ci sont plus récents.

Often Confused With

ceux-ci vs celles-ci

English speakers use 'these' for everything, but 'celles-ci' is only for feminine nouns.

ceux-ci vs ces

'Ces' is an adjective (needs a noun), while 'ceux-ci' is a pronoun (replaces the noun).

ceux-ci vs ceux-là

'Ceux-là' means 'those ones' (farther away), while 'ceux-ci' means 'these ones' (closer).

Idioms & Expressions

"Ceux-ci et pas d'autres"

— An emphatic way of saying 'these and only these.' It expresses a firm choice.

Je veux ceux-ci et pas d'autres pour mon projet.

informal

"Ni ceux-ci ni ceux-là"

— Meaning 'neither these nor those.' It indicates a total rejection of the options presented.

Je ne veux ni ceux-ci ni ceux-là, je veux autre chose.

neutral

"Ceux-ci sont légion"

— Meaning 'these are numerous' or 'there are many of these.' Derived from the biblical 'My name is Legion.'

Les exemples de réussite comme ceux-ci sont légion dans notre entreprise.

literary

"Faire partie de ceux-ci"

— To be among the group just mentioned. It is often used to describe social or professional belonging.

Il a toujours voulu faire partie de ceux-ci.

neutral

"Entre ceux-ci et ceux-là"

— Used to describe a state of indecision or a middle ground between two options.

Mon cœur balance entre ceux-ci et ceux-là.

poetic

"Ceux-ci d'abord"

— A way of setting priority, meaning 'these ones first.'

Nous devons traiter ceux-ci d'abord, c'est urgent.

neutral

"Prendre ceux-ci pour argent comptant"

— To take these (referring to words or arguments) at face value without questioning.

Il ne faut pas prendre tous ces arguments, surtout ceux-ci, pour argent comptant.

informal

"Ceux-ci sont de trop"

— Meaning 'these ones are extra' or 'these are not needed.'

Enlevez ces dossiers, ceux-ci sont de trop sur la table.

neutral

"Mettre ceux-ci en avant"

— To highlight or prioritize specific items or arguments.

Le directeur a décidé de mettre ceux-ci en avant lors de la réunion.

neutral

"Ceux-ci n'ont rien à voir"

— Meaning 'these have nothing to do with it.' Used to dismiss irrelevant items.

Pourquoi parles-tu de ces problèmes ? Ceux-ci n'ont rien à voir avec le sujet.

informal

Easily Confused

ceux-ci vs ceux

They look similar and both mean 'those/these'.

'Ceux' must be followed by more info (qui, de, etc.), while 'ceux-ci' stands alone.

Ceux qui savent (Those who know) vs Je veux ceux-ci (I want these ones).

ceux-ci vs ceci

Both indicate proximity.

'Ceci' is neutral and singular (this thing), 'ceux-ci' is masculine plural (these ones).

Lisez ceci (Read this) vs Lisez ceux-ci (Read these ones).

ceux-ci vs celui-ci

Only differ by one letter.

'Celui-ci' is singular (this one), 'ceux-ci' is plural (these ones).

Je prends celui-ci (one) vs Je prends ceux-ci (multiple).

ceux-ci vs ces...-ci

They mean the same thing.

'Ces...-ci' is an adjective construction surrounding a noun; 'ceux-ci' is a pronoun.

Ces livres-ci (these books) vs Ceux-ci (these ones).

ceux-ci vs lesquels

Both refer to a group of items.

'Lesquels' is for questions or linking; 'ceux-ci' is for pointing or stating.

Lesquels veux-tu ? Ceux-ci.

Sentence Patterns

Je veux ceux-ci.

Je veux ceux-ci (les bonbons).

Ceux-ci sont + [adjectif].

Ceux-ci sont très chers.

Parmi [les noms], ceux-ci sont...

Parmi les films, ceux-ci sont mes favoris.

[A] et [B] ; ceux-ci sont...

Il étudie le droit et le sport ; ceux-ci le passionnent.

Ceux-ci, bien que [adjectif], restent...

Ceux-ci, bien que complexes, restent accessibles.

L'analyse de [X] révèle que ceux-ci...

L'analyse des faits révèle que ceux-ci sont liés.

Donne-moi ceux-ci, s'il te plaît.

Ceux-ci ne sont pas à moi.

Word Family

Nouns

celui (this/that one, masc. sing.)

celle (this/that one, fem. sing.)

ceux (these/those ones, masc. plur.)

celles (these/those ones, fem. plur.)

Adjectives

ce (this/that, masc. sing.)

cet (this/that, masc. sing. before vowel)

cette (this/that, fem. sing.)

ces (these/those, plur.)

celui-ci

celle-ci

celles-ci

celui-là

celle-là

ceux-là

celles-là

How to Use It

frequency

Common in all registers, especially when pointing or comparing.

Common Mistakes

Using 'ceux-ci' for feminine nouns. → Celles-ci
If you are talking about 'les voitures' (feminine), you must use 'celles-ci'. 'Ceux-ci' is only for masculine.
Saying 'ces ceux-ci'. → Ceux-ci
You cannot combine the adjective 'ces' with the pronoun 'ceux-ci'. Use one or the other.
Pronouncing the 'x'. → /sø.si/
The 'x' is silent. Pronouncing it makes the word unrecognizable to native speakers.
Using 'ceux-ci' for a single item. → Celui-ci
'Ceux-ci' is plural. If you are pointing to one book, use 'celui-ci'.
Confusing 'ceux-ci' with 'ceux'. → Ceux qui...
Use 'ceux-ci' when it stands alone. Use 'ceux' if you are going to add more info like 'who' or 'of'.

Tips

Check the Gender

Always find the noun you are replacing first. If it's feminine, 'ceux-ci' is wrong. This is the #1 mistake.

Silent X

Never pronounce the 'x'. It's 'sø-si'. If you pronounce the 'x', it will sound like a different word.

The Finger Rule

If you can point to the objects with your finger without moving, use '-ci'. If they are further away, use '-là'.

Avoid Repetition

Use 'ceux-ci' to make your writing more professional. Instead of repeating 'les résultats,' use 'ceux-ci' in the next sentence.

Latter/Former

In essays, use 'ceux-ci' for the last thing you mentioned. It shows high-level control of French logic.

Pairs

Learn 'ceux-ci' and 'ceux-là' as a pair. They are much more useful when you can use them to compare things.

Focus on Suffixes

Train your ear to hear the difference between '-ci' and '-là'. It changes the whole meaning of which items are being discussed.

Don't Overthink

In fast conversation, if you forget, just use 'ceux-là'. It's more common and usually accepted even for close things.

Shop like a Local

When at a French bakery, point to the croissants and say 'Je voudrais ceux-ci'. It sounds much more native than 'Je voudrais ça'.

Ici vs Là

Remember: Ci = Ici (Here). This is the easiest way to never confuse 'ceux-ci' with 'ceux-là'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ceux' as 'Sue's' and '-ci' as 'See'. 'Sue's see'—Sue can see these ones because they are right here!

Visual Association

Imagine a person pointing with two fingers at a group of blue boxes right at their feet. The two fingers represent the plural 'ceux' and the proximity of the boxes represents '-ci'.

Word Web

ceux ceux-là celui-ci celles-ci ici démonstratif proximité masculin

Challenge

Try to find five groups of masculine plural objects in your room. Point to each group and say 'ceux-ci' aloud, then point to something across the room and say 'ceux-là'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old French 'ceaus' (from Vulgar Latin 'ecce illos') combined with the adverb 'ci' (from 'ici', Latin 'ecce hic').

Original meaning: Literally 'behold those here.'

Romance (Latin root)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; this is a neutral grammatical term.

English speakers often struggle because they use 'these' for both adjectives and pronouns. In French, you must switch from 'ces' (adjective) to 'ceux-ci' (pronoun).

Used frequently in the 'Code Civil' of Napoleon to distinguish between different legal articles. Found in the philosophical works of René Descartes to categorize ideas. Common in French culinary guides when distinguishing between varieties of ingredients.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping

Je voudrais ceux-ci.
Combien coûtent ceux-ci ?
Ceux-ci sont en solde.
Est-ce que ceux-ci sont disponibles ?

Office/Work

Ceux-ci sont les dossiers urgents.
Veuillez signer ceux-ci.
Ceux-ci ont déjà été vérifiés.
Où dois-je mettre ceux-ci ?

Kitchen/Dining

Ceux-ci sont trop salés.
Passe-moi ceux-ci, s'il te plaît.
Ceux-ci sont pour le dessert.
Ceux-ci sortent du four.

Academic/Writing

Ceux-ci représentent un défi majeur.
Comme le montrent ceux-ci...
Ceux-ci sont à la base de la théorie.
Contrairement à ceux-là, ceux-ci sont...

Giving Directions

Suivez ceux-ci (les panneaux).
Ceux-ci mènent au centre-ville.
Ne prenez pas ces chemins, ceux-ci sont barrés.
Ceux-ci sont les plus rapides.

Conversation Starters

"Parmi tous ces projets, est-ce que ceux-ci te semblent réalisables ?"

"J'ai trouvé ces vieux disques, est-ce que ceux-ci t'intéressent ?"

"On a plusieurs choix pour le dîner ; ceux-ci sont les plus rapides à préparer."

"Regarde ces appartements, ceux-ci ont une vue magnifique, non ?"

"Il y a deux types de vins ; ceux-ci sont plus fruités, tu préfères ?"

Journal Prompts

Décris deux groupes d'objets dans ta chambre en utilisant 'ceux-ci' et 'ceux-là' pour les comparer.

Pense à deux projets que tu as en cours. Pourquoi ceux-ci sont-ils importants pour toi ?

Si tu devais choisir entre plusieurs voyages, pourquoi choisirais-tu ceux-ci plutôt que d'autres ?

Écris sur les défis que tu as rencontrés cette semaine. Pourquoi ceux-ci étaient-ils particulièrement difficiles ?

Quels sont tes livres préférés ? Explique pourquoi ceux-ci t'ont marqué plus que les autres.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can use 'ceux-ci' for people, provided the group is masculine plural (either all men or a mixed-gender group). For example, 'Parmi les étudiants, ceux-ci ont réussi l'examen' (Among the students, these ones passed the exam). It is a perfectly natural way to distinguish one group of people from another nearby.

The difference is spatial and logical. 'Ceux-ci' refers to things that are 'here' (proximal), while 'ceux-là' refers to things that are 'there' (distal). In a text, 'ceux-ci' refers to the most recently mentioned item (the latter), and 'ceux-là' refers to the one mentioned earlier (the former). Think of it as 'this here' vs 'that there'.

It is neutral to formal. While it is used in everyday conversation when pointing at things, it is also a staple of formal writing to provide clarity. In very casual, slangy French, people might just say 'ceux-là' for everything, but 'ceux-ci' is never considered 'too formal' for daily use.

No. French is very strict about gender agreement. If the noun you are replacing is feminine (like 'les fleurs' or 'les voitures'), you must use 'celles-ci.' Using 'ceux-ci' for a feminine noun is a major grammatical error that will be immediately noticeable to native speakers.

You don't! The 'x' in 'ceux' is silent. The word 'ceux' is pronounced like the French word 'ce' but with a slightly more closed 'eu' sound, and then you move directly into the 'si' sound. It sounds roughly like 'suh-see' but with the specific French 'eu' vowel.

'Ces' is an adjective, which means it must be followed by a noun, like 'ces livres' (these books). 'Ceux-ci' is a pronoun, which means it replaces the noun entirely. You use 'ceux-ci' when you don't want to say the noun again. You can't say 'Je veux ces'—you must say 'Je veux ceux-ci' or 'Je veux ces livres'.

You use 'ceux' without the suffix when it is followed by a relative clause (starting with qui, que, dont) or a prepositional phrase (starting with de). For example: 'Ceux qui dorment' (Those who sleep) or 'Ceux de mon père' (The ones of my father). 'Ceux-ci' is used when it stands alone as 'these ones'.

Yes, 'ceux-ci' is strictly plural. If you want to refer to just one masculine item nearby, you must use the singular form, which is 'celui-ci' (this one). If you are talking about multiple items, 'ceux-ci' is the correct choice.

Only when it is used in a text to distinguish between two previously mentioned groups. In physical space, it just means 'these ones here.' The 'latter' meaning is a logical extension of the 'proximity' meaning—the last thing mentioned is 'closer' to the current point in the text.

Absolutely. If you are talking about 'les arguments' or 'les problèmes,' you can use 'ceux-ci' to refer to them. 'Il y a plusieurs problèmes ; ceux-ci sont les plus graves.' It works for anything that has a masculine plural grammatical gender in French.