How do you say "We can / One can" in French?

"We can / One can" in French is "On peut". This phrase is commonly used in France.

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How to Say ‘We can / One can’ in French

Q: What does "On peut" mean in English?

"On peut" means "We can / One can" in English. Usage tip: [On] often means [we] in everyday French, so [on peut] is a very normal way to say [we can]. You will hear it much more often than [nous pouvons] in conversation.

On peut

ohn puh

[ohn puh]

💬 Usage Tip: [On] often means [we] in everyday French, so [on peut] is a very normal way to say [we can]. You will hear it much more often than [nous pouvons] in conversation.

Phrase Breakdown

[ohn]

we; one; people

A very common subject pronoun in spoken French, often meaning we in everyday conversation.

Example

On peut prendre une autre rue.

We can take another street.

peut

[puh]

can; is able to

Form of pouvoir used to express possibility or permission.

Example

On peut éviter ce boulevard.

We can avoid this boulevard.

Guides for French learners

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