C'est la vie
That's life
Language note: A relaxed way to accept the ups and downs of life.
Culture note: Common in French culture to express a philosophical acceptance of life.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
C'
[se]
It's
It is a contraction meaning 'it is'.
C'est un bon film.
It's a good movie.
est
[ɛ]
is
Third person singular of 'to be'.
Le ciel est bleu.
The sky is blue.
la
[la]
the
Definite article, feminine singular.
La maison est grande.
The house is big.
vie
[vi]
life
The existence of an individual human being.
J'aime la vie.
I love life.
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