un char
casual, Quebec
In Quebec French a car is un char in casual speech, une auto in everyday talk, and une voiture in neutral or formal language.
Meaning: passenger motor vehicle (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| un char | casual, Quebec |
| une voiture | neutral |
| une auto | everyday |
Char is masculine, so it is mon char and le char. Auto and voiture are feminine, so mon auto and ma voiture.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In France un char means a chariot or a tank, not a car. This is a Quebec habit and shows in everyday talk.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid char in formal writing. Use voiture or automobile there.
Did you know?
- The word char also appears in char allégorique, a parade float.
Examples in context
- J'ai acheté un nouveau char.I bought a new car.
- Mon auto est au garage.My car is at the garage.
- La voiture est stationnée devant.The car is parked in front.
Example conversation
Simon and Catherine decide how to get to a wedding near Quebec City.
- SimonOn prend mon char ou le tien?Do we take my car or yours?
- CatherinePrenons le mien, il est plus grand.Let us take mine, it is bigger.
- SimonD'accord, je conduis.Okay, I will drive.
