chalet
/ʃa.lɛ/masculine
The English phrase "chalet" is translated into French as chalet.
In French, the term specifically refers to a wooden mountain house, often associated with the Alps.
Meaning: type of wooden house (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, le camp is an informal expression used to refer to a chalet or a cottage located near a lake or in a recreational area. In the French Alps, Le refuge is sometimes used to refer to smaller chalets located high in the mountains.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is masculine, so the indefinite article is 'un' rather than 'une'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʃa.lɛ/ (two syllables)
Did you know?
- In France, chalet can refer to a specific type of wooden market stall found at Christmas markets.
- The word chalet originated in Swiss French rather than in the standard French of France.
- In some historical contexts, a chalet was not a place of luxury but a functional tool for herders to survive the high-altitude climate.
Examples in context
- Nous avons réservé un chalet pour les vacances d'hiver.We booked a chalet for the winter vacation.
- Leurs chalets sont confortables et offrent une vue magnifique sur les montagnes.Their chalets are cozy and offer a magnificent view of the mountains.
- J'adore passer mes vacances dans un magnifique chalet en montagneI love spending my vacations in a beautiful chalet in the mountains
- Le chalet est très confortable.The chalet is very comfortable.
- Nous avons loué un grand chalet.We rented a large chalet.
- Il y a un vieux chalet en bois.There is an old wooden chalet.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are discussing their vacation plans.
- NathanTu préfères l'hôtel ou le chalet ?Do you prefer the hotel or the chalet?
- ChloéJe préfère le chalet pour les vacances.I prefer the chalet for the holidays.
- NathanD'accord, je cherche un beau chalet.Okay, I am looking for a beautiful chalet.
- ChloéC'est une excellente idée, Nathan.That is an excellent idea, Nathan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “chalet” translations and entries chalet, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chalet, CC BY-SA 4.0.
