Fais ce que tu aimes
The English phrase "do what you love" can be translated into French as Fais ce que tu aimes.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Fais ce que tu aimes is composed of Fais (do/make), ce que (that which/what) and tu aimes (you love).
Which one should you use?
The default form Fais ce que tu aimes uses the tu form, which is used for friends, family or children. Another version is Fais ce que tu aimes vraiment, which means "Do what you truly love" or "Do what you really love".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are addressing a stranger, a superior or a group of people, you should use the formal form Faites ce que vous aimez instead of the informal Fais ce que tu aimes.
Did you know?
- The word ce is actually a descendant of the Latin word 'ecce', which means 'behold' or 'look'.
- The distinction between tu and vous in this phrase is so culturally significant that using tu with a stranger can be perceived as a social transgression rather than just a grammar error.
- While Fais ce que tu aimes is a positive modern mantra, the imperative form Fais is the same root used in the phrase Fais attention, which means 'be careful'.
Examples in context
- C'est une excellente idée! Fais ce que tu aimes vraiment.That's an excellent idea! Do what you truly love.
- Il est temps de penser à toi et de faire ce que tu aimes.It's time to think about yourself and do what you love.
- Si tu veux être heureux, fais ce que tu aimes.If you want to be happy, do what you love.
- Fais ce que tu aimes pour être heureux.Do what you love to be happy.
- N'oublie pas : fais ce que tu aimes.Don't forget: do what you love.
- Si tu veux réussir, fais ce que tu aimes.If you want to succeed, do what you love.
Example conversation
Lucas is giving Chloé advice about her new career path.
- LucasTu devrais changer de métier.You should change jobs.
- ChloéC'est vrai, je cherche ma voie.It's true, I am looking for my way.
- LucasFais ce que tu aimes, Chloé.Do what you love, Chloé.
- ChloéMerci Lucas, tu as raison.Thanks Lucas, you are right.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ce, que, tu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
