French Phrase
Le terminal A, c'est pour les vols internationaux.
Meaning
This phrase means that Terminal A is designated for international flights. The structure "c'est pour" is a common and versatile way to indicate purpose or destination in French, often used in a more informal or direct manner than other constructions. It clearly assigns a function or category to the subject.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase in an airport setting, either when asking for information, giving directions, or simply stating a fact about the airport's layout. It's useful when clarifying which terminal serves a specific type of flight, or when guiding someone to the correct departure area.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Leterminal A,c'estpourlesvolsinternationaux.
Le (definite article)
"Le" is the masculine singular definite article, equivalent to "the" in English. It's used here before "terminal A" because "terminal" is a masculine noun.
c'est pour (it's for)
This is a very common and versatile construction in French. "C'est" (contraction of "ce est") means "it is" or "that is," and "pour" means "for." Together, "c'est pour" is used to indicate purpose, destination, or what something is intended for.
les vols internationaux (the international flights)
"Les" is the plural definite article. "Vols" means "flights" (masculine plural), and "internationaux" is the masculine plural adjective for "international," agreeing with "vols." Adjectives usually follow the noun in French.
🗨In Conversation
Excusez-moi, où sont les vols internationaux?
Excuse me, where are the international flights?
Le terminal A, c'est pour les vols internationaux.
Terminal A is for international flights.
✕Common Mistakes
Le terminal A est pour les vols internationaux.
While grammatically correct, "c'est pour" is much more natural and common in spoken French to express purpose or destination, especially when identifying something. "Est pour" can sound a bit stiff or less idiomatic in this context.
Terminal A, c'est pour les vols internationaux.
In French, nouns generally require an article. Omitting "Le" before "terminal A" makes the sentence sound incomplete or ungrammatical, as if it were a title rather than a full statement.
↔Alternatives
Le terminal A est destiné aux vols internationaux.
Terminal A is intended for international flights.
Les vols internationaux partent du terminal A.
International flights depart from Terminal A.
C'est au terminal A pour les vols internationaux.
It's at Terminal A for international flights.
Cultural Tip
In French airports, signs are usually very clear, but knowing how to ask or state information like this is very practical. French communication can be quite direct, and using phrases like "c'est pour" is a common way to convey information efficiently. Don't be afraid to use direct questions or statements when navigating public spaces like airports.