c'est and ce sont
c'est to point at something
By Fabling Editorial · How we design our guides
c'est to point at something
c'est introduces a person or thing: C'est Marie. C'est un livre. Use ce sont for plurals: Ce sont mes amis.
Examples in context
Read the examples and compare their English meanings.
Identifying a singular person or thing
Use c'est for one thing.
C'est un chat.
It is a cat.
Identifying a plural group
Use ce sont for plurals.
Ce sont mes amis.
These are my friends.
Common mix-ups
Use ce sont with a plural noun in standard written French. C’est mes amis is common in informal speech.
These are my friends.
Try a reply
Say or write your answer in French before opening the example.
These are my neighbors. Use the standard written plural of c'est.
Show one possible answer
Ce sont mes voisins.
Other wording can work too. Compare the verb form, agreement, and word order with the lesson. Then try a sentence about your own day.
Keep practicing
Related grammar
Practice French grammar in context
Fabling builds stories and podcast lessons around your vocabulary, interests, and learning progress.
Your first personalized story is free. No card needed.