How do you say "Is it serious?" in French?

"Is it serious?" in French is "Est-ce que c'est grave ?". This phrase is commonly used in France.

What does "Est-ce que c'est grave ?" mean in English?

"Est-ce que c'est grave ?" means "Is it serious?" in English. Usage tip: A very useful question if you are worried. Simple, direct, and natural.

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How to Say ‘Is it serious?’ in French

Est-ce que c'est grave ?

ehst suh kuh say eh grahv

[ehst suh kuh say eh grahv]

💬 Usage Tip: A very useful question if you are worried. Simple, direct, and natural.

🇫🇷 In France: Totally acceptable to ask this in France if you are concerned; doctors expect it.

Phrase Breakdown

Est-ce que c'est

ehst suh kuh say eh

Is it

This begins a polite question asking about the seriousness of something.

Example

Est-ce que c'est normal ?

Is it normal?

Words in this phrase

Est

[ehst]

Part of the yes/no question structure est-ce que.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave si je tousse ?

Is it serious if I cough?

-ce

[suh]

this

Part of the fixed expression used to ask a question.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave pour la gorge ?

Is it serious for the throat?

que

[kuh]

that

In this expression, it helps introduce a yes/no question.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave docteur ?

Is it serious, doctor?

[say]

Short form of ce in c'est, meaning it or that.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave si j'ai mal ?

Is it serious if I am in pain?

est

[eh]

Form of être in the phrase c'est.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave maintenant ?

Is it serious now?

grave

[grahv]

serious

Describes something severe or concerning.

Example

Est-ce que c'est grave ou passager ?

Is it serious or temporary?

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