tante
standard
In Quebec French an aunt is a tante, and in everyday talk many people say matante when they speak of or to their aunt.
Meaning: sister of a parent (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| tante | standard |
| matante | Quebec, familiar |
Use ma tante in writing and matante in familiar speech, often with a name, as in matante Hélène.
Which one should you use?
In France ma tante is the usual form. Matante is a Quebec habit and shows closeness.
How do you pronounce it?
Tante sounds like "tahnt" with a nasal vowel.
Did you know?
- In Quebec French the evening meal is often called souper, while dîner means lunch.
Examples in context
- Ma tante habite à Québec.My aunt lives in Quebec City.
- Matante Hélène nous invite à souper.Aunt Hélène invites us for dinner.
- Salut, matante!Hi, auntie!
Example conversation
Marie visits her aunt Hélène in Quebec City on Sunday.
- MarieAllô, matante Hélène!Hi, Aunt Hélène!
- HélèneMa belle Marie, entre!My dear Marie, come in!
- MarieJ'ai apporté un gâteau.I brought a cake.
