A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "We don't get along" in French
Expresses a lack of harmony or understanding with someone.
On ne s'entend pas.
ohn nuh sahn-tahn PAneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when talking about a difficult relationship with a family member, a colleague, or even a neighbor. It's a polite way to say you don't click well with someone.
Alternatives
- Ça ne colle pas entre nous.Emphasizes a lack of natural connection.
- On a du mal à s'entendre.Suggests effort is being made but it's still difficult.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'entente' like English 'enter'
The French 'entente' has a nasal vowel sound, not an 'r' at the end.
Forgetting the reflexive 'se'
You must use 's'entendre' (to get along with oneself/each other), not just 'entendre'.
A small cultural note
While directness is valued, French culture often prefers nuanced phrasing over blunt statements about personal conflict.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to say we don't get along with family in French?
The phrase 'On ne s'entend pas' works well for family members. It's a common and understood way to express friction.
What's the difference between 'On ne s'entend pas' and 'On ne se comprend pas'?
'On ne s'entend pas' is about general harmony and compatibility. 'On ne se comprend pas' specifically means you don't understand each other's intentions or words.
Can I use 'On ne s'entend pas' for friends?
Yes, you can use it for friends, especially if the relationship has become strained. It's a neutral way to describe the situation.
