French Phrase
C'est en automne.
Meaning
This phrase is used to indicate that the current season is autumn or that an event takes place during this season. It combines the presentative 'C'est' with the preposition 'en' and the noun 'automne'.
When to use
Use this phrase when identifying the time of year or responding to a question about when a specific event occurs. It is suitable for both casual conversation and formal writing.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estenautomne
C'est
A contraction of 'ce' (it/this) and 'est' (is), used to identify or describe a situation.
en
Preposition used before months and most seasons to indicate 'in'.
automne
A masculine noun where the 'm' is silent, but the 'n' is clearly pronounced.
🗨In Conversation
Quand est-ce que ton anniversaire a lieu ?
When does your birthday take place?
C'est en automne.
It is in autumn.
✕Common Mistakes
C'est dans automne.
The preposition 'en' is required for seasons starting with a vowel sound, not 'dans'.
Il est en automne.
When identifying a season or time period, 'C'est' is the standard impersonal expression rather than 'Il est'.
↔Alternatives
Nous sommes en automne.
We are in autumn.
On est en automne.
We are in autumn (informal).
Cultural Tip
In France, autumn is synonymous with 'la rentrée', the period in September when schools reopen and people return to work after the summer holidays. It is also a celebrated time for wine harvests (les vendanges) across various regions.