How do you say "We are" in French?

"We are" in French is "On est". This phrase is commonly used in France.

👥

How to Say ‘We are’ in French

Q: What does "On est" mean in English?

"On est" means "We are" in English. Usage tip: In everyday French, [on] very often means [we]. So [On est] is the common spoken way to say [we are], where more formal French might use [nous sommes].

On est

ohn eh

[ohn eh]

💬 Usage Tip: In everyday French, [on] very often means [we]. So [On est] is the common spoken way to say [we are], where more formal French might use [nous sommes].

Phrase Breakdown

[ohn]

we / people / one

Very common informal subject pronoun; often means 'we' in everyday spoken French.

Example

On est nouveaux dans le quartier.

We're new in the neighborhood.

est

[eh]

are

Form of 'être' used with 'on' to mean 'are'.

Example

On est contents d'être ici.

We're happy to be here.

Guides for French learners

French Conversation for Beginners: 5 Everyday Dialogues You'll Actually UseFive short French conversations for beginners, from greeting a neighbour to booking a restaurant, with translations, native audio and the phrases that keep them going.French Phrases for Tourists: What to Say in Cafés, Shops, Stations and RestaurantsThe French phrases tourists actually use, sorted by situation: greetings, directions, cafés, restaurants, shopping and emergencies, with native audio.

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”

Tom H., 38, Chef

“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”

Nina W., 29, Graduate Student

“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”

Alex M., 42, Software Engineer