Learning French: what does c’est parti mean and when should it be used?

This expression is used often among friends and family in France when something is just beginning. The influence of modern slang means it also has some fun variations.

Ready to learn all about this handy phrase? Let’s get started, c’est parti. 

What does c’est parti mean?

English speakers learning French are often told to watch out for ‘false friends,’ French words which look like English words but have different meanings. 

In the case of c’est parti, you might fall into the trap of understanding something similar to the phrase: it’s party time. 

Surprisingly, in some contexts, that could actually be an appropriate translation… but there is a more common meaning you should understand.

This popular French phrase literally translates as ‘it’s left’. However, c’est parti can be better translated as: let’s go, here we go, we’re on our way or we’re off!

It is a handy expression for many situations and indicates something is starting to happen or is just about to happen.

French synonymes for c’est parti include: allons-y and on y va.

Read also: Mastering 'a y est': understanding its usage and meanings in French 

When do you say c’est parti?

You can use this expression in many ways, for example, when making a statement, asking a question, or responding to a question. 

If somebody asks if you would like to do something or go somewhere, you could show enthusiasm by replying, c’est parti - let’s go.

You can also use this phrase to ask someone if they are ready to go. 

Some of the most common situations when you can say this phrase might be at the start of a trip, when an event is underway, or when a meeting or lesson is about to begin:

• Tout le monde est prêt ? Nous n'avons rien oublié ? C’est parti pour Paris ! - Is everyone ready? We haven’t forgotten anything? Paris, here we come!

• Le DJ est sur scène, c'est parti ! - The DJ is on stage, here we go (it’s party time/let’s get this party started)!

• Et c'est parti ! Les athlètes dévalent la piste à toute allure. - And they’re off! The athletes are speeding down the track. 

It can also be used when something long-awaited, finally happens: maintenant, c’est parti - Now we’re talking!

You often hear allez (come on), before c’est parti, to emphasise the phrase: Alright, let’s go!

Read also: French words and phrases with no real equivalent in English

To whom do you say c’est parti?

This phrase has been adopted into everyday spoken language across France but should probably be avoided in formal situations.

A fun variation of this expression is: c’est parti mon kiki ! The term, kiki, has no real meaning and is just a fun rhyming addition, a bit like: let’s go, Daddy-o!

You might even hear, c’est tipar, which is the verlan version of c’est parti.

Verlan is a modern French slang where syllables in words are swapped around. For example, à l'envers, becomes, verlan. Almost any word can be verlan-ified!

Verlan is only used in informal situations, often by teenagers and young people.

Read more: Try swapping syllables in French words to sound like a native