l'enfant Jésus
The English phrase "baby Jesus" is translated into French as l'enfant Jésus.
The phrase is used specifically in religious contexts, such as when discussing the Nativity or Nativity scenes (crèches).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the definite article l', the noun enfant (child) and the proper name Jésus.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the word for "baby" in this religious context is enfant (child) rather than bébé.
Did you know?
- In traditional French Nativity scenes, the enfant Jésus is often absent from the crèche until the midnight mass on Christmas Eve, representing his arrival.
- In some French family settings, l'enfant Jésus is replaced by le petit Jésus, a softer and more affectionate variation of the formal religious title.
- In some French literary descriptions of the Nativity, the phrase le divin Enfant is used as a poetic alternative to l'enfant Jésus to elevate the tone.
Examples in context
- Pendant la célébration de Noël, nous nous tournons vers Jésus-Enfant pour trouver l'espoir et la paix.During the Christmas celebration, we turn to Baby Jesus to find hope and peace.
- On raconte souvent l'histoire du Petit Jésus aux tout-petits pour les éveiller à la foi.The story of Little Jesus is often told to toddlers to awaken them to faith.
- Quand nous pensons au Petit Jésus, nous ressentons un amour inconditionnel et une joie profonde.When we think of Little Jesus, we feel unconditional love and profound joy.
- On voit l'enfant Jésus dans la crèche.We see the baby Jesus in the manger.
- Elle a acheté une figurine de l'enfant Jésus.She bought a figurine of the baby Jesus.
- L'enfant Jésus est au centre de la scène.The baby Jesus is at the center of the scene.
Example conversation
Manon and Gabriel are visiting a Christmas market.
- ManonC'est une très belle statue de l'enfant Jésus.It is a very beautiful statue of baby Jesus.
- GabrielOui, les détails sont vraiment magnifiques.Yes, the details are truly magnificent.
- ManonOn devrait l'acheter pour notre famille.We should buy it for our family.
- GabrielJe suis d'accord, c'est une bonne idée.I agree, that is a good idea.
