4

In English one can say 'really?' in a conversation to show interest and to imply 'tell me more'. What word in French could be used for the same thing?

3 Answers 3

10

Vraiment ?

C'est vrai ?

T'es sérieux ?

Sans blague ?

ah bon ?

hein is not really a word, more of a sound like huh ?

I hear this a lot though. Really can take on several meanings, but Vraiment is the closest literal translation.

2
  • 1
    shouldn't it be "vraiment?", with a "?" ? Apr 20, 2016 at 11:54
  • 1
    I see many differences between the given translations, could you give some details to distinguish them and know when to use one or an other ?
    – Random
    Apr 20, 2016 at 11:59
3

As already stated Vraiment ? is obviously the closest translation but imho slightly formal.

You'll more likely hear answers like:

  • C'est vrai ? (is it true?)

  • Pour de vrai ? Colloquial (for real?)

  • Sans dec' ? / Sans déconner ? Colloquial (no bullshit?)

3

le plus courant: vraiment ?

un peu moins utilisé: réellement ?

très courant oralement: ah bon ?

très courant oralement, un peu dubitatif: Non ?

très courant oralement, peu stylé: hein ?

5
  • I think "Hein?" convey the idea you did not hear properly what was said and you want them to repeat, not that you want more detail.
    – Jylo
    Apr 20, 2016 at 11:17
  • @Pierre.Sassoulas I think it depends the tone. If the person is saying something very surprising, you may use "hein ?" to mean "I can't believe it !"
    – Random
    Apr 20, 2016 at 11:58
  • Ho, rigth. "Hein ?! Oo" then :)
    – Jylo
    Apr 20, 2016 at 12:22
  • @Pierre.Sassoulas Yeah, the "Oo" part is important for this meaning :D
    – Random
    Apr 20, 2016 at 12:35
  • @Graffito , oui, ajouté, merci. Apr 21, 2016 at 21:10

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.