French Phrase
Si t'es pas sûr, fais comme eux.
Meaning
This phrase is a common idiomatic expression used to suggest following the lead of others when in doubt. It emphasizes observation and imitation as a strategy for navigating unfamiliar situations. The phrase uses the contraction 't'es' for 'tu es', making it informal and natural in spoken French.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings when giving advice to a friend or colleague who is hesitant about how to behave or what to do. It is particularly useful in social gatherings, new workplaces, or when traveling.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sit'espassûrfaiscommeeux
T'es
A spoken contraction of 'tu es'. In formal writing or speech, always use 'tu es'.
Negation
In spoken French, the 'ne' part of 'ne... pas' is almost always dropped, leaving just 'pas'.
Eux
This is a stressed pronoun used after prepositions like 'comme' to refer to a group of men or a mixed group.
🗨In Conversation
Je ne sais pas quel couvert utiliser pour le poisson.
I don't know which cutlery to use for the fish.
Si t'es pas sûr, fais comme eux.
If you're not sure, do as they do.
✕Common Mistakes
Si tu n'es pas sûr, fais comme ils.
Use the stressed pronoun 'eux' after 'comme' instead of the subject pronoun 'ils'.
Si t'es pas sûr, fais comme les.
'Les' is a direct object pronoun; 'eux' is required here as a disjunctive pronoun.
↔Alternatives
Dans le doute, imite-les.
When in doubt, imitate them.
Suis leur exemple.
Follow their example.
Cultural Tip
The contraction 't'es' and the omission of 'ne' in 'pas sûr' are markers of informal spoken French. While perfectly acceptable among friends, you should use 'Si vous n'êtes pas sûr' in formal or professional contexts. This phrase reflects a pragmatic approach to social integration often found in French culture.