French cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich flavors and elegant presentations. However, there may be times when you feel like enjoying a delicious meal in the comfort of your own home or in a more casual setting. In such cases, it’s handy to know how to say “takeaway” in French. This guide will provide you with formal and informal expressions, as well as some regional variations if necessary. Let’s delve into it!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Takeaway” in French
1. Emporter
The formal and widely used term for “takeaway” in French is “emporter.” This word can be used in various contexts, such as ordering food from a restaurant or taking away leftovers. It is a standard term that will be understood throughout the French-speaking world.
“Je souhaite emporter ce repas, s’il vous plaît.” – “I would like to get this meal for takeaway, please.”
2. À emporter
Another formal expression you can use is “à emporter,” which literally means “to take away.” This phrase is commonly seen on signs and menus in French restaurants, indicating that they offer takeaway options.
“Est-ce que vous proposez des plats à emporter ?” – “Do you offer any dishes to take away?”
Informal Ways to Say “Takeaway” in French
1. Avoir à l’emporter
When speaking with friends or in informal situations, you can use “avoir à l’emporter” to convey the idea of taking away food. Although it’s not as formal as “emporter,” it’s still a widely recognized expression in French-speaking countries.
“On peut avoir ces pâtisseries à l’emporter ?” – “Can we get these pastries to take away?”
2. Prendre à emporter
Another casual way to say “takeaway” is “prendre à emporter.” This phrase is commonly used among friends or in informal conversations. It directly translates to “take to go.”
“Tu veux prendre ce sandwich à emporter ?” – “Do you want to take this sandwich to go?”
Regional Variations
French is spoken in different regions around the world, and the dialects and vocabulary can vary. In some regions, you might come across specific terms when referring to “takeaway.”
1. Au poteau
The expression “au poteau” is used in the North of France to mean “takeaway.” While it is not as widely known or used as “emporter,” locals in that region will understand it.
“Je vais prendre ce poulet au poteau.” – “I’ll get this chicken for takeout.”
2. À emporter versus sur place
In some informal settings, you may also hear “à emporter ou sur place,” indicating the option to either eat on-site or take away. Although it is not a specific regional variation, it adds context to the concept of “takeaway.”
“Est-ce que c’est sur place ou à emporter ?” – “Is it for eating in or takeaway?”
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you navigate the world of “takeaway” in French:
- Use gestures or accompanying words: When ordering takeaway food in a French-speaking country, you can use accompanying gestures such as making a grabbing motion with your hand or saying “pour emporter” (to take away) or “enporter” (to bring along) to make your request clear.
- Ask about takeaway options: If you’re unsure whether a restaurant offers takeaway, you can simply ask, “Est-ce que je peux emporter ?” (Can I take away?). This way, you can confirm their policy before deciding on your order.
- Specify your order: When ordering takeaway, be sure to specify what you want to take away. For example, if you want a pizza to go, say, “Je voudrais une pizza à emporter, s’il vous plaît.”
- Be polite: Like in any language, being polite is essential when interacting with restaurant staff. Remember to say “s’il vous plaît” (please) and “merci” (thank you), which will be greatly appreciated.
Conclusion
Now that you are equipped with various ways to say “takeaway” in French, both formally and informally, you can confidently order your favorite dishes to enjoy outside of a restaurant setting. Remember to adapt your language depending on the situation and the region you’re in. Enjoy your meal!
