Learn French: C'est le seul comédien capable que nous recherchions. - He is the only capable actor that we are looking for.

C'est le seul comédien capable que nous recherchions.

He is the only capable actor that we are looking for.

Breakdown of C'est le seul comédien capable que nous recherchions.

être

to be

it / this (with être)

nous

we / us (object pronoun)

him, it (masculine direct object pronoun)

Questions & Answers about C'est le seul comédien capable que nous recherchions.

Why is the verb recherchions used here instead of the regular present tense recherchons?

It is in the subjunctive mood! In French, absolute expressions like le seul (the only) usually trigger the subjunctive in the clause that follows them. This highlights the exclusivity or subjectivity of the statement.

Isn't recherchions the imperfect (past) tense? The English translation says "we are looking for".

You have a great eye! For the nous and vous forms, the present subjunctive looks exactly the same as the imperfect tense. We know it is the present subjunctive here because it is triggered by le seul... que, referring to a present situation.

Why does the sentence use C'est if the English translation is "He is"?

In French, when you identify a person using a noun that has an article (like le or un) along with modifiers, you must use c'est instead of il est. Because we are saying "the only capable actor" (le seul comédien capable) rather than just stating his bare profession, we have to use c'est.

Does comédien mean "comedian" like a stand-up comic?

It can, but usually comédien is just a standard word for "actor" in French, especially one trained in theater. It is very commonly used interchangeably with acteur for anyone who acts in plays, films, or TV, regardless of whether the role is funny or serious.