French Phrase
Ce magasin est moins cher.
Meaning
The sentence states that this particular store offers lower prices than other stores. It is a simple comparative statement used when you want to point out that a shop is more affordable.
When to use
Use it while shopping, comparing two or more retailers, or recommending a place to a friend who is looking for bargains. It works in both casual conversation and more formal advice.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Cemagasinestmoinscher.
Ce (demonstrative adjective)
Points to a specific noun that is close to the speaker; agrees in gender and number with the noun.
magasin (noun)
Masculine singular noun meaning “store” or “shop.”
est (verb être)
Third‑person singular present of “to be,” used to link the subject with a description.
moins (comparative adverb)
Means “less” and is used before an adjective to form the comparative of inferiority.
cher (adjective)
Means “expensive”; when paired with “moins” it conveys “cheaper.” It must agree with the noun (masc. singular = cher, fem. singular = chère).
🗨In Conversation
Ce magasin est moins cher.
This store is cheaper.
Oui, j’ai remarqué que leurs prix sont vraiment bas.
Yes, I noticed their prices are really low.
✕Common Mistakes
Ce magasin est plus cher.
Using plus instead of moins flips the meaning to “more expensive.”
Ce magasin est moins chère.
The adjective must match the gender of magasin (masculine).
Ce magasin est moins de cher.
The comparative is moins + adjective, not moins de + adjective.
↔Alternatives
Ce magasin coûte moins cher.
This store costs less.
Ce magasin propose des prix plus bas.
This store offers lower prices.
Ce magasin est plus économique.
This store is more economical.
Cultural Tip
In French, the comparative of inferiority is built with moins + adjective (e.g., moins cher, moins cher = cheaper). Never say *plus moins* or *moins de cher*. Also remember that adjectives agree with the noun they describe, so if you were talking about a feminine shop you’d say « Cette boutique est moins chère ». In everyday French, “cher” can also mean “dear” (as in a loved one), so context tells you whether you’re talking about price or affection.