French Phrase
C'est combien, un aller simple ?
Meaning
The speaker is asking for the price of a one‑way ticket, whether for a train, bus, plane or any other mode of transport. The phrase is informal but perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation.
When to use
Use this sentence at ticket counters, travel agencies, or when speaking with a fellow traveler about the cost of a single‑direction journey. It works for any transport mode and is especially handy when you only need to travel one way.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estcombien,unallersimple?
C'est + combien
The structure "C'est combien" is the standard way to ask "How much is it?" in French, using the demonstrative "c'est" (it is) followed by the interrogative adverb "combien".
Un aller simple
"Aller simple" is a compound noun meaning a one‑way ticket; it is masculine, so it takes the indefinite article "un".
Interrogative adverb placement
When asking price, the adverb "combien" follows the verb phrase and does not require inversion (e.g., not *"Combien est‑ce?*").
🗨In Conversation
C'est combien, un aller simple ?
How much is a one‑way ticket?
C'est quarante‑cinq euros.
It's forty‑five euros.
✕Common Mistakes
Combien est‑ce un aller simple ?
The verb does not invert with "combien"; use "C'est combien" or "Combien coûte..."
Un aller simple, c'est combien ?
While understandable, the natural order is "C'est combien, un aller simple ?"
C'est combien le prix d'un aller simple ?
Redundant; "le prix" is unnecessary because "combien" already asks for the price.
↔Alternatives
Quel est le prix d'un aller simple ?
What is the price of a one‑way ticket?
Combien coûte un aller simple ?
How much does a one‑way ticket cost?
Un aller simple, ça fait combien ?
A one‑way ticket, how much is it?
Cultural Tip
In France, many train tickets are sold as "aller‑retour" (round‑trip) because they are often cheaper than two one‑way tickets. When you ask for an "aller simple," the clerk may suggest a round‑trip option if it saves you money. Also, be aware that "aller simple" is less common for short‑haul flights, where airlines usually price tickets per segment anyway.