Il vaut mieux
Example: Il vaut mieux partir tôt pour éviter le trafic.
Definition
"Il vaut mieux" is a French expression used to suggest that one option is preferable to another, often implying a recommendation or advice. It means 'it is better' or 'one should' and is commonly used to propose the best course of action, as in 'Il vaut mieux partir tôt pour éviter le trafic.'
Etymology
The phrase "Il vaut mieux" comes from the French verb 'valoir,' meaning 'to be worth,' combined with 'mieux,' meaning 'better.' Literally, it translates to 'it is worth better,' which evolved into expressing preference or advisability. Did you know that 'valoir' is related to the Latin 'valere,' meaning 'to be strong or worth'? This highlights the phrase's origin in expressing value or worthiness.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Il vaut mieux" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 107 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
