On ne sait jamais
You never know
Language note: Literally translates to 'one never knows'. Used to express uncertainty.
Culture note: A classic French way to express life's unpredictability.
Context: Your teammate realizes they shouldn't take chances.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
On
[ohn]
One
Impersonal pronoun used to mean 'people' or 'we' generally.
On doit toujours être prudent.
One must always be cautious.
ne
[nuh]
negation
A negation particle used in forming negative sentences.
Il ne va pas au front.
He is not going to the front.
sait
[seh]
know
To have knowledge or be aware of something.
Il sait utiliser la radio.
He knows how to use the radio.
jamais
[zhah-meh]
Never
Indicating not at any time.
On ne sait jamais ce qui va se passer.
You never know what is going to happen.
Phrase Parts
On
One/We
Generic pronoun often used for general statements.
On dit
One says
ne sait
does not know
A negative form for expressing lack of knowledge.
Il ne sait pas
He does not know
jamais
never
Used to indicate at no time.
je ne joue jamais
I never play
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