French Phrase
C'est vite fait.
Meaning
This idiomatic expression literally translates to 'it is quickly made' or 'it is quickly done.' It is used to describe a task, action, or process that requires very little time or effort to complete. While usually positive, it can occasionally imply that something was done too hastily or without much care.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual conversation when you want to reassure someone that a task won't take long or when describing a simple chore you just finished. It is perfect for informal settings with friends, family, or colleagues.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estvitefait
C'est
A contraction of 'ce' (it/that) and 'est' (is), used to identify or describe things.
Vite
An adverb meaning 'quickly'. In this phrase, it functions as part of a fixed expression.
Fait
The past participle of the verb 'faire' (to do/make), acting here like an adjective.
🗨In Conversation
Tu peux m'aider à déplacer cette table ?
Can you help me move this table?
Bien sûr, c'est vite fait.
Of course, it's quickly done.
✕Common Mistakes
Il est vite fait.
Use 'C'est' to describe a general situation or task; 'Il est' is typically used for specific masculine nouns or people.
C'est fait vite.
While understandable, 'vite fait' is the standard idiomatic word order for this expression.
↔Alternatives
Ça ne prend pas longtemps.
It doesn't take long.
C'est du gâteau.
It's a piece of cake.
En deux secondes.
In two seconds.
Cultural Tip
In French culture, efficiency is valued in daily tasks, and you will hear this phrase often in bakeries or shops. However, in a professional context, be mindful that 'vite fait' can sometimes carry a nuance of being 'slapdash' if the quality of the work is expected to be high.