Since "on" is singular, is, "On est Gentils," correct?

Susan R.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Since "on" is singular, is, "On est Gentils," correct?

This question relates to:French lesson "Nous vs on to say "we" in French (French Subject Pronouns)"

Asked 9 years ago

AurélieKwiziq Head of French, Native French TeacherCorrect answer

Bonjour Susan !

Yes, it is a very peculiar case, but when "on" actually refers to more than one person (= "nous"), you will agree adjectives to the number of people, therefore using plural...
UNLESS you're using "on" in a general way (= "one" does...), then you will use the singular form.

- Quand on est gentil, le monde nous sourit ! (When one is nice, the world smiles at them!)
- On est gentils avec notre sœur. (We're nice with our sister.)

I hope this helps!
À bientôt !

Like59 years ago

Susan R.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

One sees the logic. Merci!

Like29 years ago

Brenda Leisa A.A1Kwiziq community member

Merci, beaucoup!

Like07 years ago

Susan R. asked: