French Phrase
En général, c'est plus lent.
Meaning
The sentence means “In general, it’s slower.” It is used to make a broad observation about the speed of something compared to other cases, often in contrast to a specific instance.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to comment on a typical trend or average behavior, such as when comparing two processes, devices, or habits. It works well in both casual conversation and more formal explanations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Engénéral,c'estpluslent.
En général
An adverbial phrase meaning “in general.” It modifies the whole clause that follows.
c' est
Contraction of “ce + est.” Used to refer to a previously mentioned idea or situation.
plus + adjective
The comparative form “plus + adjective” expresses “more …”. Here it compares speed: “more slow” → “slower.”
lent
Adjective meaning “slow.” It agrees in gender and number with the implied subject (neutral “ce”).
🗨In Conversation
Le train de nuit met trois heures de plus que le TGV.
The night train takes three hours longer than the TGV.
En général, c'est plus lent.
In general, it’s slower.
✕Common Mistakes
En général, c’est plus lente.
The adjective must stay masculine because the pronoun “ce” is neutral; do not make it feminine.
En general, c'est plus lent.
Do not omit the accent on “général”; it changes pronunciation and looks incorrect.
En général, c'est le plus lent.
When comparing two things, you need the comparative “plus + adjective”; using the superlative “le plus lent” would change the meaning to “the slowest.”
↔Alternatives
D'habitude, c'est plus lent.
Usually, it’s slower.
En règle générale, c'est plus lent.
As a rule, it’s slower.
En général, cela prend plus de temps.
Generally, it takes more time.
Cultural Tip
The adverbial phrase “en général” is a neutral, slightly formal way to introduce a generalization. In everyday speech, French speakers often prefer “d'habitude” or “en général” depending on the context. Avoid over‑using it in very informal chats where a simple “c’est plus lent” may feel more natural.