'Nous' or 'on'?

‘Nous’ is the first person plural, so it means ‘we’ or ‘us’. The verb following ‘nous’ will therefore be conjugated in the first person plural. ex: Nous mangeons du chocolat.

‘On’ is used to designate an undefined person or group of person. It is vague: we do not have any information about the number of persons, their gender... A verb following ‘on’ will be conjugated in the third person singular. ex: On mange du chocolat.

In French spoken language you can substitute ‘nous’ by ‘on’, which is more commonly used. However it is better to use ‘nous' when you are writing; it also sounds more formal.

PH
Answered by Pamina H. French tutor

1937 Views

See similar French A Level tutors

Related French A Level answers

All answers ▸

Analysez les méthodes utilisées par le dramaturge que vous avez étudié pour atteindre ses objectifs. A votre avis, dans quelle mesure est-ce qu’il a attient ces objectifs ?


How do you best translate questions that would in English begin with "How...?"


At A-level, students will be expected to be able to confidently use the subjunctive mood.


How would I introduce and explain the idea of sustainable living in French?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning