Mal vs. malade

C. M.C1Kwiziq community member

Mal vs. malade

My understanding is that J'ai mal à + noun is physical pain whereas Je suis malade is more like "I am sick" (perhaps with a flu or cold). Can you please confirm whether that is correct? 

As well, it would probably be useful to either link to a lesson that explains être malade or have another section in this lesson that explains the difference for future students!

Asked 4 years ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Claire,

You are correct in your understanding.

The reason not to introduce the expression -

être malade to be ill/sick 

is that it is literal,  uses a different verb which might confuse some students at that level.

Avoir mal à is a very useful expression to learn as it introduces different parts of the body and être malade is very general.

Bonne Continuation!

C. M. asked:View original

Mal vs. malade

My understanding is that J'ai mal à + noun is physical pain whereas Je suis malade is more like "I am sick" (perhaps with a flu or cold). Can you please confirm whether that is correct? 

As well, it would probably be useful to either link to a lesson that explains être malade or have another section in this lesson that explains the difference for future students!

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
Getting that for you now...