A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Of course" in French
The go-to French phrase for 'of course,' essential for polite and natural conversation.
Bien sûr
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Use this when someone asks if you can do something, if something is possible, or if you agree with a statement. For example, if a friend asks if you can lend them a pen, you'd say 'Bien sûr!'
Alternatives
- ÉvidemmentSlightly more emphatic, like 'obviously'.
- AbsolumentStronger agreement, closer to 'absolutely'.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing the 'n' in 'bien'
The 'n' creates a nasal vowel sound; don't pronounce it like an English 'n'.
Silent 't' in 'sûr'
The final 't' is silent, so don't try to pronounce it.
A small cultural note
While 'Bien sûr' is standard, some older generations or in very formal settings might prefer 'Certainement' for a more robust affirmation.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
When is 'Bien sûr' better than 'Oui'?
'Bien sûr' adds a layer of assurance and willingness beyond a simple 'yes'. It implies something is easy or expected.
Can I use 'Bien sûr' to mean 'you're welcome'?
No, 'Bien sûr' is for agreement or affirmation, not for responding to thanks. For 'you're welcome,' use 'De rien' or 'Je vous en prie'.
How to say 'of course not' in French?
You can say 'Bien sûr que non' for a direct translation, or more commonly, simply 'Non, bien sûr'.
