chaise de plage
The English phrase 'beach chair' is translated into French as chaise de plage.
This term refers to a chair specifically designed for use on a beach.
Meaning: A chair for use on beaches (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of chaise (chair), de (of) and plage (beach).
Which one should you use?
While chaise de plage is the standard term, you may also encounter transat, which is an informal way to refer to a beach chair.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, change chaise to chaises by adding an 's', but do not change the word plage.
Did you know?
- The word chaise traces its roots back to the Latin word 'cathedra', which is the same root used for the English word 'cathedral'. This implies a connection between a simple chair and a high-ranking seat of authority.
- If you use the shorter term transat, you are actually using a contraction of the phrase transatlantique. This refers to the reclining nature of the chair, which is meant to remind people of the relaxing experience of long ocean voyages.
- French distinguishes between a chaise de plage, which is often a foldable chair, and a transat, which specifically implies a reclining posture. Using the wrong one might lead to a misunderstanding about how you intend to relax.
Examples in context
- Viens, on se pose sur les transats!Come on, let's sit on the beach chairs!
- J'ai réservé deux chaises longues à la plage.I've reserved two beach chairs at the beach.
- J'ai besoin d'une chaise de plage.I need a beach chair.
- Je cherche une chaise de plage bleue.I am looking for a blue beach chair.
- Ta chaise de plage est très confortable.Your beach chair is very comfortable.
- Il reste une chaise de plage pour nous.There is one beach chair left for us.
Example conversation
Manon and Gabriel are at the seaside preparing for a sunbathing session.
- ManonGabriel, as-tu apporté la chaise de plage ?Gabriel, did you bring the beach chair?
- GabrielOui, elle est dans le coffre de la voiture.Yes, it is in the car trunk.
- ManonParfait, installe-la près de l'eau.Perfect, set it up near the water.
- GabrielD'accord, je m'en occupe tout de suite.Okay, I'll take care of it right away.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chaise, de, plage, CC BY-SA 4.0.
