Tu es fabuleuse.

Sentence Discussions French
#1
English Translation

You look fabulous.

I was a bit confused as to why “Tu es fabuleuse” translates as “You look fabulous”.

Gemini suggested instead “Tu es superbe” and then I had a follow up question about the difference between the two:

Grammatically, you are correct: both sentences use the verb être (to be).

  • Tu es fabuleuse = You are fabulous.
  • Tu es superbe = You are superb.

So why does one translate to “are” and the other to “look”? It comes down to the “personality” of the adjective and French cultural logic.

Here is the breakdown:

1. The Adjective “Superbe” is Visual

In French, the word superbe is almost exclusively used to describe physical beauty or magnificence.

  • When you say Tu es superbe, the French ear hears: “Your physical presentation right now is magnificent.”
  • The French Logic: French speakers often don’t distinguish between “looking” beautiful and “being” beautiful. If you are dressed up and look great, then in that moment, you are great. We state it as a fact (être) rather than a perception (to look).

2. The Adjective “Fabuleuse” is Abstract

The word fabuleuse comes from “fable” (story/myth). It describes a person’s essence, character, or personality.

  • If you say Tu es fabuleuse, it implies you are an amazing, incredible person (you are a “legend”).
  • While it can refer to appearance, it is so grand and sweeping that it feels deeper than just “you look nice in that dress.” It feels like a judgment of their soul or vibe.
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