Question 1

Why does the sentence start with C' but later use cela with the verb être?

Accepted Answer

Both C' (short for ce) and cela are neutral pronouns. C'est is the standard, everyday way to say 'It is' or 'This is'. In the second clause, cela is used instead of ce to formally point back to the specific idea just mentioned (the fact that it is a dilemma). Using cela est instead of a second c'est adds an elevated, formal tone. In casual speech, you would likely just hear c'est inacceptable.

Question 2

Could I use ceci instead of cela here?

Accepted Answer

It would sound unnatural. In French discourse, cela refers backward to an idea you have already established (the dilemma). Ceci, on the other hand, usually points forward to a new idea you are about to introduce (like saying 'Listen to this:'). Because you are concluding something based on the previously stated clause, cela is the correct choice.

Question 3

How does par conséquent compare to donc?

Accepted Answer

Par conséquent means 'consequently' or 'therefore'. While donc is the most common and versatile way to say 'so' or 'therefore' in everyday French, par conséquent is a more formal, precise connector. At a B2 level, it is a great phrase to use in essays or professional speech to clearly structure cause and effect.

Question 4

Is there a trick to remembering the gender and spelling of dilemme?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Notice that unlike the English word 'dilemma', the French word ends in an -e and has a double m. Even though words ending in -e are often feminine, dilemme is masculine (un dilemme). This is common for French nouns derived from Greek, similar to un problème or un système.

C'est un dilemme, et par conséquent cela est inacceptable.

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