sois sage
The English phrase "be good" can be translated into French as sois sage.
This phrase is used as an instruction to a child to behave well and follow the rules. While the English "be good" can refer to being a good person in a moral sense, the French expression specifically refers to behaving well and following rules in the moment.
What does it mean word for word?
The word sage literally means "wise", but when used with children, it means "well-behaved".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form sois sage uses the imperative mood of the verb être (to be) for the second-person singular.
Did you know?
- The French word sage comes from the Latin word sagāx, which originally meant 'keen-scented' or 'acute', like a hunting dog.
- If you tell a French adult to sois sage, it is often interpreted as a joke or a condescending remark because the phrase is almost exclusively reserved for children.
- The opposite of sage when talking to a child is often turbulent, which describes a child who is physically overactive rather than just 'bad'.
Examples in context
- Soyez sage pendant mon absence. Je serai de retour bientôt.Be good while I'm away. I'll be back soon.
- Sois sage et ne fais pas de bêtises.Be good and don't get into mischief.
- Sois sage pendant mon absence.Be good while I am gone.
- Sois sage avec ta sœur.Be good with your sister.
- Sois sage à l'école aujourd'hui.Be good at school today.
Example conversation
Emma is leaving for work and leaving Nathan at home.
- EmmaJe dois partir maintenant.I have to leave now.
- NathanD'accord, à ce soir !Okay, see you tonight!
- EmmaSois sage, Nathan.Be good, Nathan.
- NathanPromis, je serai sage.I promise, I will be good.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sage, CC BY-SA 4.0.
