French Phrase
Oui, c'est vraiment bondé.
Meaning
This phrase is used to confirm that a location or vehicle is packed with people. The word 'bondé' is more intense than simply saying there are 'many people,' suggesting a space filled to capacity.
When to use
Use this when responding to someone asking about the state of a restaurant, a train, or a public event. It is perfect for casual observations about busy environments in daily life.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ouic'estvraimentbondé
C'est
A contraction of 'ce' (it) and 'est' (is), used to identify or describe a situation.
Vraiment
An adverb used as an intensifier to mean 'really' or 'truly'.
Bondé
An adjective derived from 'bonde' (a stopper), used specifically to describe a place packed with people.
🗨In Conversation
Est-ce qu'il y a de la place dans le bus ?
Is there any room on the bus?
Oui, c'est vraiment bondé.
Yes, it's really crowded.
✕Common Mistakes
Oui, c'est vraiment plein.
While 'plein' means full, 'bondé' is the specific idiomatic term used for crowds of people.
Oui, il est vraiment bondé.
Use 'c'est' when making a general observation about a situation or place rather than 'il est'.
↔Alternatives
Il y a un monde fou.
There is a crazy amount of people.
C'est plein à craquer.
It is full to bursting.
Cultural Tip
In major French cities like Paris, 'bondé' is a daily reality on the 'métro' during rush hour. French speakers often use this phrase with a slight sigh to express the shared social experience of being in a cramped public space.