fais-moi un câlin
The phrase 'give me a hug' in French is fais-moi un câlin.
This phrase is used to request that someone hold you in their arms to show affection.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, fais-moi un câlin translates to 'make me a hug'.
Which one should you use?
While embrasse-moi can mean 'hug me' in certain contexts, it is much more frequently used to mean 'kiss me'. Using fais-moi un câlin is a clearer way to specify a platonic hug.
How does it change in a sentence?
Use faites-moi un câlin instead of fais-moi un câlin when speaking to more than one person or to someone you address with vous.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'hug' as a common greeting between friends, French speakers often prefer la bise, the custom of kissing cheeks, for social greetings.
- In many French-speaking regions, especially in parts of Africa, physical touch and much more frequent hugging are common social norms compared to the more reserved etiquette often found in mainland France.
- The word câlin is often used as a noun to describe a person who is very affectionate, such as a 'câlin' child. It can function as both the act of hugging and the name for someone who loves to cuddle.
Examples in context
- Pourriez-vous me faire un câlin, s'il vous plaît?Could you give me a hug, please?
- Pouvez-vous m'enlacer un instant, s'il vous plaît?Can you embrace me for a moment, please?
- Fais-moi un câlin!Give me a hug!
- Viens me serrer dans tes bras!Come and embrace me!
- Fais-moi un câlin, s'il te plaît.Give me a hug, please.
- Je suis triste, fais-moi un câlin.I am sad, give me a hug.
- Viens ici et fais-moi un câlin.Come here and give me a hug.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are saying goodbye at the train station.
- EmmaJe vais te manquer ?Will you miss me?
- NathanBien sûr, Emma.Of course, Emma.
- EmmaAlors, fais-moi un câlin avant de partir.Then, give me a hug before leaving.
- NathanAvec plaisir.With pleasure.
