donne-moi un bisou
The English phrase "give me a kiss" is translated into French as donne-moi un bisou.
This phrase is a request for a kiss, often used in an affectionate or casual way.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of donne (give), moi (me) and un bisou (a kiss/peck).
Which one should you use?
While un bisou is the common, affectionate term used in daily life, un baiser is more formal or literary. You might also use Embrasse-moi to mean "Kiss me".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
donne-moi un bisou is informal and is typically used with children, family members or romantic partners. For a cute, informal and playful tone, you can say Fais-moi un bisou. If you wish to be polite and formal, use Puis-je avoir un baiser ?
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the imperative form of the verb donner (to give), which is the singular informal command form.
Did you know?
- Using bisou is much more common in casual, verbal communication, whereas baiser can sound unexpectedly heavy or even erotic depending on the context.
- The word bisou is derived from bise, which originally referred to a cold north-west wind. This suggests the term might have once imitated the sound of a sharp breath or a quick puff of air.
- The custom of la bise involves leaning in to touch cheeks while making a kissing sound, but you never actually touch your lips to the other person's skin.
Examples in context
- Donne-moi un bisou !Give me a kiss.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase donne-moi un bisou.Tatoeba #1846381 by sacredceltic, translation #1844204 by CK
- Fais-moi un bisou !Give me a kiss!
- Embrasse-moiKiss me
- Donne-moi un bisou avant de partir.Give me a kiss before leaving.
- Allez, donne-moi un bisou sur la joue.Come on, give me a kiss on the cheek.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye at the front door.
- HugoJe dois y aller maintenant.I have to go now.
- ChloéD'accord, mais donne-moi un bisou d'abord.Okay, but give me a kiss first.
- HugoDonne-moi un bisou toi aussi, ma belle.Give me a kiss too, beautiful.
- ChloéÀ demain, Hugo !See you tomorrow, Hugo!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bisou, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
