Using possessive pronouns versus using etre a

Kelly H.A1Kwiziq community member

Using possessive pronouns versus using etre a

Is there a difference between using 

etre a + moi/toi/lui/... 

and

possessive pronous? 

Or could they be used interchangeably? Are there certain situations in which one would be better than the other? 

For example: 

Ces lunettes de soleil ne sont pas les siennes.

Those sunglasses are not his.Would it also be appropriate to say: Ces lunettes de soleil ne sont pas à eux.
Asked 4 years ago
Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

Yes, you can use that construction, too:

Ces lunettes ne sont pas les siennes. -- Ces lunettes ne sont pas à lui (or à elle).
Ces lunettes ne sont pas les leurs. -- Ces lunettes ne sont pas à eux/ à elles

Using possessive pronouns versus using etre a

Is there a difference between using 

etre a + moi/toi/lui/... 

and

possessive pronous? 

Or could they be used interchangeably? Are there certain situations in which one would be better than the other? 

For example: 

Ces lunettes de soleil ne sont pas les siennes.

Those sunglasses are not his.Would it also be appropriate to say: Ces lunettes de soleil ne sont pas à eux.

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
I'll be right with you...