French Phrase
L'heure est bonne ?
Meaning
Literally “Is the hour good?” It is used to ask whether the current time (or a proposed time) is convenient for the listener. It can refer to the exact clock time or to a scheduled moment such as a meeting, dinner, or appointment.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to confirm that a specific time works for someone else – for example, before setting a meeting, confirming a dinner reservation, or checking if it’s still a good time to call.
✦Grammar Breakdown
L'heureestbonne?
L' + vowel
The definite article "la" contracts to "l'" before a vowel or mute h, as in "l'heure".
être (est)
"est" is the third‑person singular present of the verb "être" (to be).
Adjective agreement
The adjective "bon" must agree with the feminine noun "heure", becoming "bonne".
Question intonation
Adding a question mark after a declarative sentence turns it into a yes/no question; spoken French often adds rising intonation.
🗨In Conversation
L'heure est bonne ?
Is the time okay?
Oui, c'est parfait, on se retrouve à 18h.
Yes, it’s perfect, we’ll meet at 6 p.m.
✕Common Mistakes
Le heure est bonne ?
The article must contract to "l'" before a vowel; "le" is incorrect.
L'heure est bon ?
Because "heure" is feminine, the adjective must be "bonne".
Est‑tu bonne ?
Use the third‑person form "est" with "l'heure"; "est‑tu" is a second‑person conjugation and does not match the subject.
↔Alternatives
Est‑ce que l'heure vous convient ?
Does the time suit you?
Ça vous va comme heure ?
Does that time work for you?
L'heure vous arrange‑t‑elle ?
Is the time convenient for you?
Cultural Tip
In French, it’s common to ask about the suitability of a time using polite forms like "Est‑ce que l'heure vous convient ?" or the more informal "Ça te va ?". When speaking to strangers or in a professional setting, keep the tone courteous and avoid overly casual phrasing. Also note that "bonne heure" can be used idiomatically to mean "good timing" (e.g., "C’est une bonne heure pour partir").