French Phrase
C'était génial.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe a past event, experience, or object as excellent or wonderful. It utilizes the imperfect tense to set a scene or describe a state of being in the past.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving feedback about a movie, a meal, a vacation, or a party you attended. It is perfect for casual conversations with friends and colleagues.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'étaitgénial
C'
A contraction of 'ce', acting as the impersonal subject 'it' or 'that'.
Était
The verb 'être' conjugated in the imparfait (imperfect) tense, used for descriptions in the past.
Génial
An adjective meaning great or brilliant. It remains masculine singular here because it refers back to the neutral 'ce'.
🗨In Conversation
Comment était le concert hier soir ?
How was the concert last night?
C'était génial ! L'ambiance était folle.
It was great! The atmosphere was crazy.
✕Common Mistakes
Il était génial.
Use the impersonal 'ce' (c') to describe general experiences rather than 'il' which refers to a specific person or noun.
C'est était génial.
Do not use two forms of the verb 'to be' together; 'C'était' is the correct past tense contraction.
↔Alternatives
C'était super.
It was super.
C'était top.
It was top-notch.
C'était incroyable.
It was incredible.
Cultural Tip
French speakers often use 'génial' in the same way English speakers use 'awesome.' It is very common in informal settings, but you might choose 'excellent' or 'formidable' for more formal writing or professional feedback.