A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "This doesn't fit" in French
Use 'Ça ne va pas' when something you're trying on or considering simply isn't the right fit.
Ça ne va pas.
sah nuh vah PAHneutral
French TTS · 0:01
This is perfect for trying on clothes in a boutique or when a piece of furniture just doesn't look right in your space. You can also use it if a plan or idea isn't working out.
Alternatives
- Ce n'est pas la bonne taille.Use this specifically when the size is wrong for clothing or shoes.
- Ça ne marche pas.This is better for when something isn't functioning or a plan isn't succeeding.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'ça' like 'sah'
The 'ç' makes an 's' sound, so 'ça' is more like 'sah'.
Forgetting 'ne'
In standard French negation, you need both 'ne' and 'pas' around the verb, so 'Ça va pas' is incomplete.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to say this doesn't fit in French clothes shop?
You can say 'Ça ne va pas' to indicate an item isn't suitable. If it's specifically a size issue, 'Ce n'est pas la bonne taille' is more precise.
What if the color doesn't fit?
For color, you might say 'La couleur ne me va pas' (The color doesn't suit me) or simply 'Ça ne va pas' if the overall look is wrong.
Is 'Ça ne va pas' only for clothes?
No, 'Ça ne va pas' is quite general and can refer to anything that doesn't fit, work, or feel right, from a physical item to a situation.
