Question 1

Why use ceci and cela here instead of the usual c'est?

Accepted Answer

While c'est is the standard way to say "this is" or "that is", it doesn't work well when you need to explicitly contrast two distinct ideas in the same breath. By using the pair ceci ("this") and cela ("that"), you clearly and formally oppose the two concepts.

Question 2

How do we know which idea takes ceci and which takes cela?

Accepted Answer

Just like in English, ceci ("this") points to the idea that feels conceptually "closer" to the speaker, while cela ("that") points to the idea that is "further away." When paired in a single sentence like this, their main job is just to separate Idea A from Idea B, though ceci is often used for the point the speaker currently wants to focus on.

Question 3

If "this" and "that" refer to a feminine noun, like une action, would the adjectives become feminine?

Accepted Answer

No. Because ceci and cela are neutral demonstrative pronouns, they don't stand in for a specific noun; they refer to a whole concept, situation, or statement. As a result, any adjectives describing them (justifié, inacceptable) must always stay in the default masculine singular form.

Question 4

Would a French speaker actually say this exact sentence in casual conversation?

Accepted Answer

Probably not. Ceci and cela belong to a formal register. In everyday spoken French, you would be much more likely to hear Ça, c'est justifié, mais ça, c'est inacceptable, using your tone of voice to emphasize the word ça and create the contrast.

Ceci est justifié, mais cela est inacceptable.

Breakdown of Ceci est justifié, mais cela est inacceptable.

Questions & Answers about Ceci est justifié, mais cela est inacceptable.

Learn Ceci est justifié, mais cela est inacceptable and more in French