French Phrase
C'est combien la caution ?
Meaning
This question asks for the amount of a security deposit, typically in contexts such as renting an apartment, borrowing equipment, or checking into a hotel. It is a casual, everyday way to inquire about the price of the deposit.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to know how much money you must pay as a deposit before you can use a service or property. It works well in rental agencies, hotels, car‑rental desks, or when borrowing items from a friend.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estcombienlacaution?
C'est
Contraction of "ce + est"; used to identify or ask about a noun phrase, especially in questions like "C'est combien...?".
combien
Interrogative adverb meaning "how much"; placed after "c'est" to ask for a price or quantity.
la caution
Feminine noun meaning "the security deposit"; the article "la" is required.
Question format
In spoken French, the intonation rises at the end; the written form keeps the question mark but does not require inversion.
🗨In Conversation
C'est combien la caution ?
How much is the deposit?
La caution est de 500 euros.
The deposit is 500 euros.
✕Common Mistakes
Combien est la caution ?
While grammatically possible, native speakers rarely use this order; "C'est combien la caution ?" sounds more natural.
C'est combien caution ?
Do not drop the article; "caution" alone sounds incomplete. Always say "la caution" (or "le cautionnaire" for guarantor).
C'est combien le cautionnaire ?
"Cautionnaire" means "guarantor", not "deposit". Using it here changes the meaning.
↔Alternatives
Quel est le montant de la caution ?
What is the amount of the deposit?
Combien faut‑il payer pour la caution ?
How much do I have to pay for the deposit?
C’est quel prix pour la caution ?
What price is the deposit?
Cultural Tip
In France, security deposits for residential rentals are legally limited: one month's rent for unfurnished apartments and up to two months for furnished ones. The word "caution" can also mean "guarantor" in legal contexts, so be sure the listener knows you are talking about a monetary deposit, not a person who guarantees payment.