lettre professionnelle
The English phrase "business letter" can be translated into French as lettre professionnelle.
This phrase refers to a formal letter written for professional purposes or business communications.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of lettre (letter) and professionnelle (professional).
Which one should you use?
While lettre de commerce is a literal translation of "commercial letter", lettre professionnelle is the more natural and common way to refer to business correspondence in a general sense.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, add an s to both words: lettres professionnelles.
Did you know?
- When writing a lettre professionnelle, French etiquette often requires specific, rigid 'formules de politesse' at the end, which are much more elaborate than English sign-offs.
- In a French lettre professionnelle, the date is often written with the day first, then the month and year, but the month is always written in lowercase, unlike in English.
- When addressing a business letter to a person whose name is unknown, French writers often use Madame, Monsieur rather than the English 'To whom it may concern'.
Examples in context
- Je dois rédiger une lettre professionnelle pour mon employeur.I have to write a business letter for my employer.
- J'ai envoyé une lettre professionnelle ce matin.I sent a business letter this morning.
- Il doit rédiger une lettre professionnelle pour le client.He must write a business letter for the client.
- Cette lettre professionnelle est très bien rédigée.This business letter is very well written.
Example conversation
Manon and Gabriel are discussing work in an office.
- ManonGabriel, as-tu terminé ta lettre professionnelle ?Gabriel, have you finished your business letter?
- GabrielOui, je viens de l'imprimer.Yes, I just printed it.
- ManonC'est parfait, je vais l'envoyer tout de suite.That's perfect, I will send it right away.
- GabrielMerci beaucoup, Manon.Thank you very much, Manon.
