C’est v Il / Elle est

Alan R.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

C’est v Il / Elle est

The lesson re the above clearly states that “If it/ he/ she is followed by a determinant you will use c’est.” Why then, after taking Lucie’s temperature does the doctor say,  “ Elle est un peu élevée” and when taking her blood pressure, “Elle est un peu basse”? I can understand why he would say “Elle est élevée” or “Elle est basse” but surely the given answer contradicts the rule.

Asked 1 year ago
Maarten K.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

‘Un peu (adjective) ’ - ‘un peu ..’ is a locution adverbiale, and not a determiner. The fixed expression is treated grammatically as a unit.

It is the presence of a noun after ‘il or elle est…’ that is uncommon (but not never). Recognising a determiner is normally a good shortcut indication of a noun following, and also avoids confusion with the description of professions by ‘noun adjectives’ being caught up in the ‘prohibited list’. 

Unfortunately, no simple rule covers all the exceptions - nor the colloquial spoken use of the language ! 

https://www.wordreference.com/fren/un%20peu 

https://www.frenchtoday.com/blog/french-grammar/cest-versus-il-elle-est/

C’est v Il / Elle est

The lesson re the above clearly states that “If it/ he/ she is followed by a determinant you will use c’est.” Why then, after taking Lucie’s temperature does the doctor say,  “ Elle est un peu élevée” and when taking her blood pressure, “Elle est un peu basse”? I can understand why he would say “Elle est élevée” or “Elle est basse” but surely the given answer contradicts the rule.

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
I'll be right with you...