I know il/elle are pronouns - which stands in for a noun. So, if you are referring to a specific noun, then you use the pronoun: "où est mon frère? Il est dans sa chambre." However, "ce" is a demonstrative adjective. Maybe, c'est is an abbreviated way of saying "this thing/person is... So "C'est mon frère" is like saying "This (person) is my brother." I don't know if this way of thinking will work for all examples, but I hope I am on the right track.
c'est vs. il est
- « Back to Q&A Forum
- « Previous questionNext question »
Todd L.Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
c'est vs. il est
This question relates to:French lesson ""C'est" vs "Il/Elle est" to say it is/she is/he is in French"
Asked 4 years ago
I like your logic, Todd, and thank you for sharing it with us as it is a difficult concept to convey to learners.
He is ( this person) is my brother = C’est mon frère
It’s (this is) my computer = C’est mon ordinateur
Bonne continuation!
Jim J. Kwiziq Q&A super contributor
Try this link https://www.lawlessfrench.com/grammar/cest-vs-il-est/
It should help you to understand from an expert.
Todd L. asked:View original
c'est vs. il est
I know il/elle are pronouns - which stands in for a noun. So, if you are referring to a specific noun, then you use the pronoun: "où est mon frère? Il est dans sa chambre." However, "ce" is a demonstrative adjective. Maybe, c'est is an abbreviated way of saying "this thing/person is... So "C'est mon frère" is like saying "This (person) is my brother." I don't know if this way of thinking will work for all examples, but I hope I am on the right track.
Don't have an account yet? Join today
Ask a question
Find your French level for FREE
Test your French to the CEFR standard
Find your French level