viens ici
The phrase 'come here' in French is viens ici.
This phrase is a command used to tell someone to move toward the speaker's current location.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb venir (to come) in the second-person singular imperative and the adverb ici (here).
Which one should you use?
While viens ici is a direct command, it can sound quite blunt or even rude depending on the tone of voice used.
How does it change in a sentence?
Viens ici is the imperative form used for a single person you know well, such as a friend, child or family member. Use venez ici instead of viens ici when addressing more than one person or when using the formal vous to show respect.
Did you know?
- When calling a child to 'come here', French parents often use the diminutive viens là instead of viens ici, even though là literally means 'there'.
- The word ici shares a common ancestor with the Latin word 'ecce', which was used to draw attention to something, much like saying 'behold'.
- While viens ici is the literal translation, French speakers often use viens voir meaning 'come see' to invite someone closer, even if there is nothing specific to look at.
Examples in context
- Pierre, viens ici !Pierre, come here!This example shows how to use viens ici when calling a specific person.Tatoeba #1084195 by nimfeo, translation #1594051 by CN
- Viens ici mon garçon.Come here boy.This example demonstrates using viens ici when speaking to a boy.Tatoeba #1638527 by sacredceltic, translation #1638143 by Spamster
- Je viens ici souvent.I come here often.This example shows a different use of viens ici in a statement rather than a command.Tatoeba #4452079 by sicerabibax, translation #2308007 by CK
- 28 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo wants to show Emma something on his phone.
- HugoEmma, viens ici un instant.Emma, come here for a moment.
- EmmaQu'est-ce qu'il y a, Hugo ?What is it, Hugo?
- HugoRegarde cette photo !Look at this photo!
- EmmaOh, c'est vraiment joli.Oh, it's really pretty.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ici, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
