How to Use "On" in French

The French pronoun "on" is a versatile and frequently used word that can be challenging for English speakers. Let's explore its various uses and how to incorporate it into your French conversations.

General Usage

"On" is typically used as an indefinite subject pronoun, similar to "one" or "people" in English. However, it's much more common in French and can represent various subjects depending on the context.

Replacing "We"

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

• Formal: Nous allons au cinéma. (We're going to the cinema.)
• Casual: On va au cinéma. (We're going to the cinema.)

Expressing General Truths

"On" can express general statements or common knowledge:

• On ne sait jamais. (You never know. / One never knows.)
• En France, on mange du fromage. (In France, people eat cheese.)

As an Impersonal Subject

It's used in impersonal constructions:

• On dit que... (It is said that... / They say that...)
• On m'a dit que... (I was told that... / Someone told me that...)

Replacing Passive Voice

French often uses "on" where English might use passive voice:

• English: The door was opened.
• French: On a ouvert la porte.

Grammar Note

Despite its various meanings, "on" always conjugates like a third-person singular subject:

• On est content. (We are happy. / One is happy.)
• On a fini le travail. (We have finished the work. / The work has been finished.)

Understanding the versatility of "on" will greatly enhance your French speaking and comprehension skills. Practice using it in different contexts to sound more natural in your French conversations.