d’accord vs être d’accord

ByFast French

In French, the expressions “d’accord” and “être d’accord” are both used to show agreement, but they have subtle differences in usage and grammatical construction that can be challenging for language learners.

D’accord

“D’accord” is an invariable interjection that typically means “okay” or “alright.” It’s a quick, informal way to express consent or agreement in conversation.

Usage examples

  1. – On se retrouve à 19 heures ? D’accord !
    (Shall we meet at 7 PM? Okay!)
  2. D’accord, je viens.
    (Okay, I’m coming.)
  3. Tu veux aller au cinéma ? – D’accord !
    (Do you want to go to the cinema? – Alright!)
  4. D’accord, pas de problème.
    (Okay, no problem.)

Être d’accord

“Être d’accord” is a verbal expression meaning “to agree” or “to be in agreement.” It’s used to express a more substantive level of agreement about an idea, opinion, or proposition.

Usage examples

  1. Je suis d’accord avec ton analyse.
    (I agree with your analysis.)
  2. Êtes-vous d’accord pour reporter la réunion ?
    (Are you in agreement about postponing the meeting?)
  3. Nous ne sommes pas d’accord sur ce point.
    (We don’t agree on this point.)
  4. Es-tu d’accord avec ce plan ?
    (Are you in agreement with this plan?)

Etymology of “accord”

The word “accord” originates from the Latin “ad” (to) and “cor” (heart), literally meaning “to the heart.” This etymological root suggests a deep, heartfelt understanding or harmony between people.

Key differences

  • “D’accord” is an interjection used to quickly affirm or consent
  • “Être d’accord” is a full verbal expression describing a state of agreement
  • “D’accord” can stand alone as a response
  • “Être d’accord” requires a complete sentence structure

Usage contexts

  • “D’accord” is more informal and conversational
  • “Être d’accord” is used in more formal or detailed discussions
  • “D’accord” works well in quick exchanges
  • “Être d’accord” allows for more nuanced expression of agreement or disagreement

Tips for learners

  • Use “d’accord” for quick, casual agreements
  • Use “être d’accord” when explaining or elaborating on your agreement
  • Remember that “être d’accord” can be conjugated like a regular verb
  • Context and tone will guide your choice between the two expressions

Don’t miss new articles!

Get 1 email a week with new articles about French

We don’t spam! Read more in our privacy policy

Similar Posts

  • looking forward to

    ByFast French

    In English, looking forward to expresses anticipation or excitement about a future event. In French, there is no single direct equivalent, and the translation depends on context, formality, and grammatical structure. Common strategies include using the verb avoir hâte de, phrases with être impatient de, or more formal constructions with se réjouir de. 1. Avoir…

  • eventually, finally, possibly

    ByFast French

    The English adverbs “eventually,” “finally” and “possibly” are often translated wrongly into French by learners. People learn techniques like converting “normal” (normal, in English) into “normalement” (normally) and général (general, in English) into “généralement” (generally). So they imagine that “eventuel” would convert into “eventuellement” and “possible” would become “possiblement.” But that is not the case….

  • |

    plus vs davantage

    ByFast French

    Plus The word “plus” is very common in French. It usually means “more” and can be used in comparisons, quantities, or to indicate an increase. 1. Comparisons 2. Quantities 3. Indicating an increase Note: When “plus” is used in a negative sentence, the “s” is silent: Davantage The word “davantage” also means “more,” but it…

  • Subjunctive mood

    ByFast French

    The subjunctive is a verb mood that expresses actions or ideas that are subjective or uncertain. It can indicate doubt, necessity, emotion, or a desire rather than a straightforward statement of fact. Although it can seem complicated at first, the subjunctive is a normal and frequent part of everyday French. There are four moods in…

  • seize

    ByFast French

    Several French verbs can translate to the English word “seize,” each with distinct nuances. The most common are saisir, s’emparer de, and sauter sur. While they share the general idea of taking hold of something, their usage varies depending on context, intention, and tone. Saisir Saisir is the most neutral and versatile of the three…

  • jusqu’à

    ByFast French

    Jusqu’à is a common French preposition meaning “until,” “up to,” or “as far as,” depending on context. It expresses a limit in time, space, quantity, or extent. Its form changes slightly when combined with certain words, producing variants such as jusqu’au, jusqu’aux, jusqu’en, and jusqu’à ce que. 1. Temporal use: “until” When referring to time,…