How to Say ‘Seems / looks’ in French
A l'air
ah l ehr
[ah l ehr]
💬 Usage Tip: From the expression "avoir l'air" = "to seem/look." Example: "Ça a l'air cool" = "That looks cool."
🇫🇷 In France: This is a very common everyday expression in France, especially when reacting to plans, food, or activities.
Phrase Breakdown
A
[ah]
has
Third-person singular of avoir; in the expression avoir l'air, it helps mean to seem or to look.
Le roller a l'air amusant.
Inline skating seems fun.
l'
[l]
the
Contracted article in the expression l'air; it is the definite article before a vowel.
Le roller a l'air facile, mais il faut pratiquer.
Inline skating looks easy, but you have to practice.
air
[ehr]
appearance / impression
In avoir l'air, air means appearance or impression, and the whole expression means to seem or look.
Ce hobby a l'air intéressant.
This hobby seems interesting.
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 LessonWhat 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