French Phrase
Oui, bien sûr. Quand ?
Meaning
This phrase combines a strong affirmation ('Oui, bien sûr') with a direct question about timing ('Quand ?'). It expresses enthusiastic agreement to a proposal or suggestion, immediately followed by an inquiry about the specific time or date for it to happen. It's a concise way to confirm willingness and move towards planning.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone proposes an activity, a meeting, or an event, and you want to express your immediate and definite agreement while also asking for the specific time details. It's perfect for scheduling, confirming availability, or showing eagerness to participate.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oui,bien sûr.Quand?
Oui
This is the most common way to say 'yes' in French. It's a simple and direct affirmation.
Bien sûr
Meaning 'of course' or 'certainly', this expression adds emphasis and enthusiasm to your agreement. It implies there's no doubt.
Quand ?
This is the interrogative adverb for 'when'. It's used to ask about time and can stand alone as a complete question.
🗨In Conversation
On pourrait aller au cinéma ce week-end ?
Could we go to the cinema this weekend?
Oui, bien sûr. Quand ?
Yes, of course. When?
✕Common Mistakes
Oui. Quand bien sûr?
The 'bien sûr' should follow 'oui' as a complete expression of agreement, not be split by 'quand'.
Oui, bien sûr. Quand est?
'Quand' alone is sufficient for 'When?'. 'Quand est?' is grammatically incorrect in this context.
Oui, bien sûr. À quel temps?
'À quel temps?' refers to weather or grammatical tense. For asking 'when', 'Quand ?' is the correct and natural choice.
↔Alternatives
D'accord, quand ?
Okay, when?
Bien sûr, à quelle heure ?
Of course, at what time?
Oui, quand est-ce qu'on se voit ?
Yes, when are we meeting?
Absolument, quand ça vous arrange ?
Absolutely, when suits you?
Cultural Tip
French communication can be direct, and this phrase is a good example of that. While 'Oui, bien sûr' is polite and enthusiastic, immediately following with 'Quand ?' shows a practical desire to move forward with planning. It's generally well-received as it indicates genuine interest and efficiency. In more formal contexts, you might add a 'vous' or 'on' to the 'Quand ?' to soften it slightly, like 'Quand est-ce que vous seriez disponible ?' (When would you be available?).