French Word of the Day: Juste
This French word doesn't always mean the same thing as the English "just".
This French word doesn't always mean the same thing as the English "just".
This French word has several different meanings depending on the context.
The French word juste , roughly pronounced zhoost (listen here ), has several meanings that overlap with the English word “just”. It can mean “fair”, “reasonable” or “morally right”, as in Ce n’est pas juste ! - That’s not fair!
It can also mean “correct” or “accurate”. Example: Ta réponse est juste - Your answer is correct.
Like “just” in English, juste can also mean “only” or “simply”. For example, J’ai juste une question - I just have one question. It can also be used to mean “exactly” or “right” when referring to a precise place or moment: Juste à côté - “Right next door” or “right next to it.”
So if someone tries on a pair of shoes and says C’est juste , they may mean “They’re a bit tight” rather than “That’s fair.”
The same idea can apply to things such as time or money, when something meets only what is needed: J’ai juste assez d’argent pour payer le loyer - I have just enough money to pay the rent.
It can also mean that someone is short of something: Il me manque 10 euros, je suis juste - I’m €10 short.
Le pantalon est juste au niveau de la taille. -The trousers are a little tight around the waist.
La voiture est juste pour cinq personnes. - The car is a bit too small for five people.
C'est pas juste ! Il m'a accusé d'avoir menti. - It's not fair! He accused me of lying.
