corvées
The English phrase "chores" is translated into French as corvées.
The word corvées is most commonly used to refer to household chores or tedious, repetitive tasks that are considered boring or unpleasant.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In a historical or formal context, the singular form corvée can refer to a system of unpaid labor or a heavy, burdensome task such as drudgery or forced labor.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, the phrase Les travaux ménagers may be used to describe chores.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of this word is corvée.
Did you know?
- In Quebec, corvée is sometimes used to describe a community effort where neighbors gather to complete a large project, like building a barn, for one person.
- The term corvée was a central point of tension leading up to the French Revolution, as the abolition of this forced labor was a major demand of the Third Estate.
- In a military context, a corvée refers to the tedious fatigue duties, such as cleaning barracks, that soldiers are assigned outside of their actual training.
Examples in context
- J'ai des corvées à faire.I've got some chores to do.This sentence is useful for expressing that you have chores to perform.Tatoeba #2371271 by sacredceltic, translation #2361980 by CK
- Je dois faire mes corvées.I've got to do my chores.This sentence is useful for expressing an obligation to complete your chores.Tatoeba #2371221 by sacredceltic, translation #2361992 by CK
- J'en ai fini avec mes corvées.I'm done with my chores.This sentence is useful for stating that you have finished your chores.Tatoeba #955784 by sacredceltic, translation #953819 by CK
- Je dois faire mes tâches ménagères ce soir.I have to do my chores tonight.
- Merci de m'aider avec les tâches ménagères.Thank you for helping me with the chores.
- Les enfants doivent participer aux tâches ménagères.Children should participate in household chores.
- J'ai plein de corvées à faire ce weekend.I have lots of chores to do this weekend.
- On doit partager les corvées équitablement.We must share the chores equally.
- Les travaux ménagers ne devraient pas être uniquement la responsabilité des femmes.Chores shouldn't be solely a woman's responsibility.
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chloé and Nathan are discussing their weekend plans at home.
- ChloéJe déteste ces corvées le samedi matin.I hate these chores on Saturday mornings.
- NathanMoi aussi, mais on doit les finir.Me too, but we have to finish them.
- ChloéTu peux m'aider avec mes corvées ?Can you help me with my chores?
- NathanOui, je vais t'aider, Chloé.Yes, I will help you, Chloé.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
