French Phrase
Les vues sont toujours à couper le souffle.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "The views are always to cut the breath," but it's an idiomatic expression meaning "The views are always breathtaking" or "The views are always stunning." It conveys a strong sense of awe and wonder at a beautiful sight, emphasizing that the beauty is consistently remarkable.
When to use
Use this phrase when describing scenery, landscapes, or any visual spectacle that consistently evokes a strong emotional response due to its beauty. It's perfect for travel descriptions, talking about natural wonders, or even appreciating art or architecture that leaves you speechless.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Les vuessonttoujoursà couper le souffle
Les vues
'Les vues' means 'the views'. 'Vue' is a feminine noun, and here it's in its plural form, requiring plural agreement for the verb and any adjectives.
Sont (être)
'Sont' is the third-person plural conjugation of the verb 'être' (to be). It agrees with the plural subject 'Les vues'.
Toujours
'Toujours' is an adverb meaning 'always'. In French, adverbs of frequency like 'toujours' typically follow the conjugated verb.
À couper le souffle
This is an idiomatic expression meaning 'breathtaking' or 'stunning'. It is invariable, meaning it doesn't change form to agree with gender or number.
🗨In Conversation
Regarde ce panorama! C'est incroyable, n'est-ce pas?
Look at this panorama! It's incredible, isn't it?
Oui, absolument! Les vues sont toujours à couper le souffle ici.
Yes, absolutely! The views are always breathtaking here.
✕Common Mistakes
Les vues est toujours à couper le souffle.
The verb 'être' must agree with the plural subject 'Les vues'. Use 'sont' (are) instead of 'est' (is).
Les vues sont toujours coupant le souffle.
The correct idiomatic expression is 'à couper le souffle' (to cut the breath), not 'coupant le souffle' (cutting the breath).
Les vues sont à couper le souffle toujours.
The adverb 'toujours' (always) typically comes after the conjugated verb in French, not at the end of the sentence.
↔Alternatives
Les vues sont magnifiques.
The views are magnificent.
C'est splendide.
It's splendid.
C'est incroyable.
It's incredible.
Les paysages sont sublimes.
The landscapes are sublime.
Cultural Tip
French culture often places a high value on aesthetics, whether in art, architecture, or natural beauty. Using expressions like 'à couper le souffle' demonstrates an appreciation for these visual experiences. It's a common and well-understood idiom, so don't hesitate to use it to express genuine admiration for stunning sights.