quand tu veux
The English phrase "anytime you want" can be expressed in French as quand tu veux.
quand tu veux is used to tell someone they can do something whenever it is convenient for them. It is a literal translation of "when you want".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase quand tu veux literally means "when you want".
Which one should you use?
While quand tu veux is used for general informal situations, quand tu voudras can be used to express "whenever you want" specifically regarding a future event in more formal or grammatically precise contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing a stranger, a superior or a group of people, use the formal/plural form quand vous voulez instead of quand tu veux.
Did you know?
- While quand tu veux is a friendly invitation, switching to quand vous voulez is not just about politeness but can signal a sudden emotional distance or coldness in a relationship.
- The pronoun tu in quand tu veux is a distant relative of the English word 'thou' and the German 'du'.
- The use of quand tu veux can be used ironically to suggest that someone is always available because they have nothing better to do.
Examples in context
- « Puis-je venir chez toi ? » « Quand tu veux. »"May I come over to your house?" "Anytime you want."This example shows how to respond to a request for permission using quand tu veux.Tatoeba #11293191 by Micsmithel, translation #1871950 by CK
- Vous pouvez me contacter quand vous voulez .You can contact me anytime you want.
- Nous sommes disponibles pour discuter à tout moment, à votre convenance .We are available to discuss at any time, at your convenience.
- Tu peux passer à la maison quand tu veux .You can come to my house anytime you want.
- On se voit pour prendre un café, quand ça te dit ?Shall we meet up for coffee when it suits you?
- Tu peux m'appeler quand tu veux.You can call me anytime you want.
- Passe à la maison quand tu veux.Stop by the house anytime you want.
Example conversation
Two friends are making plans to hang out.
- ChloéEst-ce que je peux passer te voir ce soir ?Can I come see you tonight?
- GabrielOui, bien sûr, quand tu veux.Yes, of course, anytime you want.
- ChloéMerci Gabriel, c'est très gentil.Thanks Gabriel, that's very kind.
- GabrielDe rien, à plus tard !You're welcome, see you later!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries quand, tu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
