Are you curious about how to say “au pair” in French? Whether you want to use this term in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to express “au pair” in French, along with tips, examples, and a touch of regional variations. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Au Pair in French
If you are in a formal context and wish to use an appropriate term for “au pair,” here are a few options:
- Nounou à l’étranger – This term directly translates to “nanny abroad” and is often used to refer to an au pair.
- Demi-pair – Literally meaning “half-pair,” this term implies a half-time au pair who assists with childcare and household chores in exchange for accommodation, meals, and lessons.
- Jeune fille au pair – The most common formal expression for an au pair, especially when referring to a female au pair.
- Garçon au pair – Similarly to “jeune fille au pair,” this term is used when specifically referring to a male au pair.
Now that you’re familiar with the formal ways to say au pair, let’s explore the informal expressions for a more casual setting.
Informal Ways to Say Au Pair in French
If you’re among friends or in a more relaxed environment, you may prefer to use these informal terms for “au pair” in French:
- Fille au pair – This expression is a casual version of “jeune fille au pair,” commonly used when referring to a female au pair.
- Gars au pair – Similar to “garçon au pair,” this phrase is an informal way to refer to a male au pair.
- Super nounou – Translated to “super nanny,” this term is used informally to describe an au pair who goes above and beyond in their responsibilities.
Keep in mind that the informal expressions may not be suitable for all situations or individuals. It’s always essential to gauge the formality of the context before using these terms.
Examples of Using Au Pair in French
To provide a better understanding of how to incorporate “au pair” into conversations, here are some examples:
Formal:
“J’ai engagé une jeune fille au pair pour m’aider avec mes enfants et les tâches ménagères.”
Translation: “I hired an au pair to assist me with my kids and household chores.”
Informal:
“Ma voisine est une fille au pair qui vient d’Angleterre.”
Translation: “My neighbor is an au pair from England.”
Regional Variations
When it comes to regional variations in France, the terms used for “au pair” remain relatively consistent. However, there might be slight variations in pronunciation and perhaps some local slang words for “au pair.” These variations mainly stem from different accents and dialects across the country.
For instance, in the southern regions of France, “au pair” may be pronunced as “oh pair” with a slightly softer “r” sound. However, this is merely a pronunciation difference and does not alter the term’s meaning.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to say “au pair” in French, both formally and informally, you can confidently express yourself in various settings. Whether you choose a formal term like “jeune fille au pair” or a more casual expression such as “fille au pair,” these phrases will help you communicate effectively. Remember, understanding the context and the individuals you are speaking to is crucial to choose the appropriate term. Bonne chance!
