French Phrase
Jane Austen, c'est un classique.
Meaning
The sentence means “Jane Austen is a classic.” It states that the author is considered a timeless, exemplary work in literature. The phrase can be used both in casual conversation and in more formal literary discussions.
When to use
Use this expression when you want to praise an author, a book, a film, or any cultural work that has stood the test of time. It works well in book clubs, classroom debates, or when recommending a classic to a friend.
✦Grammar Breakdown
JaneAusten,c'estunclassique.
c'est
Contraction of "ce" (this/that) + "est" (is). Used to identify or describe something.
un vs une
"Classique" is masculine, so it takes the indefinite article "un".
Proper noun placement
Names like "Jane Austen" are kept unchanged in French and are not preceded by an article.
🗨In Conversation
Jane Austen, c'est un classique.
Jane Austen is a classic.
Oui, ses romans restent intemporels et toujours appréciés.
Yes, her novels remain timeless and always appreciated.
✕Common Mistakes
Jane Austen, c'est une classique.
"Classique" is masculine, so the correct article is "un".
Jane Austen, c est un classique.
Missing the apostrophe and contraction; it should be "c'est".
Jane Austen, c'est un klasik.
Pronounce the final "-que" as /k/ not /kə/; the correct French pronunciation is /klasik/.
↔Alternatives
Jane Austen, c'est une référence.
Jane Austen is a reference point.
Jane Austen, c'est une œuvre incontournable.
Jane Austen is an essential work.
Jane Austen, c'est un incontournable de la littérature.
Jane Austen is a must‑read in literature.
Cultural Tip
In French, "classique" can describe anything from music to fashion, not only literature. When you say "c'est un classique," you’re placing the subject in the canon of works that are repeatedly studied and admired. Remember that the gender of the noun you describe determines the article: "un classique" (masc.) vs. "une classique" (fem., rarely used for the word itself but for nouns like "une classique du cinéma").