How to Use "On" in French Conversations

The French pronoun "on" is incredibly versatile and frequently used in everyday conversations. For B1 learners, mastering its usage can significantly enhance your speaking skills and help you sound more natural. Let's explore the main ways to use "on" in French.

Replacing "nous" (we)

In casual speech, French speakers often use "on" instead of "nous" to mean "we". This usage is less formal and more common in everyday conversations.

Example:

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

Expressing General Statements

"On" can be used to make general statements about people or society, similar to "one" or "you" in English.

Example:

• On ne devrait pas juger un livre par sa couverture. (One shouldn't judge a book by its cover.)

Passive Voice Alternative

French speakers often use "on" to avoid passive voice constructions, making sentences more active and direct.

Example:

• Instead of: Le nouveau restaurant a été ouvert hier.
• Use: On a ouvert le nouveau restaurant hier. (The new restaurant was opened yesterday.)

Impersonal Expressions

"On" is useful for impersonal expressions when the subject is not specific or important.

Example:

• On dit que le français est une langue romantique. (It is said that French is a romantic language.)

Grammar Note

Remember, even though "on" replaces "nous", it always takes a third-person singular verb conjugation.

By incorporating "on" into your French conversations, you'll sound more natural and fluent. Practice using it in different contexts to become comfortable with this essential pronoun.