How to Use "Ce Cette Ces" in French
French demonstrative adjectives "ce", "cette", and "ces" are essential for pointing out specific nouns. They're equivalent to "this", "that", "these", and "those" in English. Let's explore how to use them correctly.
Basic Rules
- Ce is used for masculine singular nouns
- Cette is used for feminine singular nouns
- Ces is used for plural nouns (both masculine and feminine)
Usage Examples
Singular Masculine
Use "ce" before masculine singular nouns:
- Ce livre (this/that book)
- Ce garçon (this/that boy)
Singular Feminine
Use "cette" before feminine singular nouns:
- Cette maison (this/that house)
- Cette fille (this/that girl)
Plural (Both Genders)
Use "ces" before plural nouns, regardless of gender:
- Ces livres (these/those books)
- Ces maisons (these/those houses)
Special Cases
When a masculine singular noun starts with a vowel or silent h, use "cet" instead of "ce":
- Cet arbre (this/that tree)
- Cet homme (this/that man)
Practice Sentences
- J'aime ce film. (I like this movie.)
- Cette voiture est rapide. (This car is fast.)
- Ces fleurs sont belles. (These flowers are beautiful.)
- Cet ordinateur est nouveau. (This computer is new.)
Remember, context determines whether these adjectives translate to "this" or "that" in English. French doesn't distinguish between the two in the same way English does.
By mastering "ce", "cette", and "ces", you'll be able to precisely indicate which objects or people you're referring to in French conversations.