How to use French pronoun on

The French pronoun "on" is a versatile and frequently used word that can be challenging for English speakers to master. This pronoun has multiple uses and can replace several different subjects in French sentences.

Main Uses of "On"

As an Informal "We"

In casual speech, "on" often replaces "nous" (we):

• On va au cinéma ce soir. (We're going to the movies tonight.)

As an Impersonal Pronoun

"On" can be used similarly to "one" or "people" in English:

• On ne sait jamais. (You never know. / One never knows.)

As a Generic "They"

It can represent an unspecified group:

• On dit que Paris est magnifique au printemps. (They say Paris is beautiful in spring.)

As a Passive Voice Alternative

French uses "on" to avoid passive constructions:

• On m'a dit que le train était en retard. (I was told the train was late.)

Grammar Rules

Remember that "on" always takes a third-person singular verb form:

• On mange (We eat / One eats)
• On est (We are / One is)

Formal vs. Informal Usage

While "on" is more informal in many contexts, it's widely accepted in both spoken and written French. In very formal situations, using "nous" might be more appropriate.

Examples in Context

• Au bureau, on travaille beaucoup. (At the office, we work a lot.)
• En France, on mange du pain tous les jours. (In France, people eat bread every day.)
• On ne fume pas ici. (No smoking here. / One does not smoke here.)

Understanding and using "on" correctly will significantly enhance your French language skills and help you sound more natural in conversations.