French Phrase
La caution est remboursable ?
Meaning
The speaker is asking whether the security deposit (caution) will be returned after the contract ends. It is a polite, slightly informal way to verify the landlord’s or service provider’s policy.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are signing a lease, renting a car, or any situation where a deposit is required and you want to confirm that you will get it back later.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lacautionestremboursable?
La (definite article)
Used before a feminine singular noun to specify a particular item.
caution (noun, f.)
Means a security deposit or guarantee, especially in rental contracts.
est (être, 3rd person singular)
Present‑tense form of the verb ‘to be’; links the subject with its description.
remboursable (adjective, f.)
Means ‘refundable’; it agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies (caution → remboursable).
Question intonation
In spoken French, a yes‑no question can be formed simply by raising the pitch at the end, as shown here.
🗨In Conversation
La caution est remboursable ?
Is the deposit refundable?
Oui, elle vous sera restituée dans les trente jours suivant la fin du contrat.
Yes, it will be returned to you within thirty days after the contract ends.
✕Common Mistakes
La caution est remboursé.
‘Caution’ is feminine, so the adjective must be ‘remboursable’ (or ‘remboursée’ if you use the past participle).
La caution le est remboursable.
Do not insert an extra article; the structure is ‘caution est remboursable’.
La caution est remboursable.
A question should end with a question mark or rising intonation; a period makes it a statement.
↔Alternatives
Le dépôt de garantie est remboursable ?
Is the security deposit refundable?
Peut‑on récupérer la caution ?
Can we get the deposit back?
La caution sera-t‑elle restituée ?
Will the deposit be returned?
Cultural Tip
In France, a landlord may ask for a ‘caution’ equal to one month’s rent for an unfurnished apartment (two months for a furnished one). By law, the deposit must be returned within one month of the tenant moving out, provided there is no damage. Mentioning the exact timeframe (e.g., « dans les trente jours ») shows you know the local rules and can help negotiate more smoothly.