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How to Say ‘That's kind of you to ask’ in French

C'est gentil de demander.

say ay zhahn-TEE duh duh-mahn-DAY

[say ay zhahn-TEE duh duh-mahn-DAY]

🇫🇷 In France: This sounds warm and appreciative, and it specifically praises the fact that the person asked first. In a flirting situation, that can signal that their manners are being noticed.

Phrase Breakdown

C'est gentil

say ay zhahn-TEE

That's kind

Used to thank someone politely for their thoughtfulness.

Example

C'est gentil de ta part.

That's kind of you.

Words in this phrase

C'

[say]

it / this

Short form of ce in the expression c'est.

Example

C'est agréable ici ce soir.

It’s pleasant here tonight.

est

[ay]

is

Form of être meaning is.

Example

Le bar est encore ouvert.

The bar is still open.

gentil

[zhahn-TEE]

kind / nice

Shows appreciation for a considerate action.

Example

C'est gentil d'attendre un peu.

It’s kind to wait a little.

De demander

duh duh-mahn-DAY

to ask

Infinitive phrase meaning 'to ask'; here it refers to the act of offering or checking politely.

Example

Merci de demander.

Thank you for asking.

Words in this phrase

de

[duh]

to / of

A linking preposition before an infinitive.

Example

C'est utile de savoir ça.

It’s useful to know that.

demander

[duh-mahn-DAY]

to ask

Used here for asking permission politely.

Example

Il faut demander avant de s'asseoir.

You have to ask before sitting down.

Guides for French learners

The Best App to Learn French: An Honest ComparisonDuolingo, Babbel, Pimsleur, Busuu, italki and PrettyFluent compared for learning French: what each is best at, how you pay, and which fits your goal.French Conversation for Beginners: 5 Everyday Dialogues You'll Actually UseFive short French conversations for beginners, from greeting a neighbour to booking a restaurant, with translations, native audio and the phrases that keep them going.

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