Going on vacation is always exciting, especially when you’re planning to explore a new country and immerse yourself in a different culture. If you’re planning to visit a French-speaking destination, it’s helpful to know how to express the phrase “go on vacation” in French. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to say “go on vacation” in French, and provide you with tips, examples, and even some regional variations to make your French vacation even more enjoyable.
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Formal Ways to Say “Go on Vacation” in French
When it comes to formal situations, such as speaking with colleagues, managers, or people you don’t know well, it’s important to use the appropriate language. The phrase “go on vacation” in French can be translated into different expressions depending on the context. Here are a few formal ways to say it:
List of Formal Expressions
- Aller en vacances: This is the most common and straightforward way to say “go on vacation.” It emphasizes the action of going away for a vacation. Example: “Je vais en vacances la semaine prochaine” (I am going on vacation next week).
- Partir en congé: This expression is typically used in formal or professional settings, referring to taking time off work. Example: “Je pars en congé pour les vacances d’été” (I am going on vacation for the summer holidays).
- Prendre des vacances: This expression is equivalent to “take a vacation” in English. It is a more formal way of expressing the idea of going on vacation. Example: “Je vais prendre des vacances au mois de juillet” (I am going to take a vacation in July).
Informal Ways to Say “Go on Vacation” in French
In casual everyday conversations with friends, family, or people you are familiar with, you can use more informal expressions to say “go on vacation” in French. These expressions are commonly used and will help you blend in with native French speakers. Here are a few informal ways to express the idea of going on vacation:
List of Informal Expressions
- Partir en vacances: This is the most common and versatile informal expression for “go on vacation” in French. Example: “On part en vacances en juillet” (We are going on vacation in July).
- Se barrer en vacances: This expression is very informal and colloquial, but commonly used among friends. It adds a touch of excitement or anticipation to the idea of going on vacation. Example: “On se barre en vacances dans quelques jours!” (We are heading on vacation in a few days!).
- Filer en vacances: Similar to “se barrer en vacances,” this expression is also more colloquial and often used in relaxed conversations. Example: “Il file en vacances pendant deux semaines” (He’s jetting off on vacation for two weeks).
Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are widely used throughout the French-speaking world, it’s worth noting that there might be some regional variations. Different French-speaking countries or regions may have unique phrases or local slang when referring to going on vacation. Here are a couple of examples:
Vacances: This term is commonly used in France, but in Québec, they might use the word “congé” instead. Example: “Je pars en vacances” (France) versus “Je pars en congé” (Québec).
Partir se ressourcer: This phrase is often used in the French-speaking regions of Switzerland and Belgium, emphasizing the idea of rejuvenating or recharging oneself during a vacation. Example: “Je pars en vacances pour me ressourcer” (I am going on vacation to recharge).
Conclusion
Knowing how to say “go on vacation” in French is useful when communicating with native French speakers or navigating a French-speaking country. In formal situations, you can use expressions such as “aller en vacances,” “partir en congé,” or “prendre des vacances.” For more casual conversations, you can opt for “partir en vacances,” “se barrer en vacances,” or “filer en vacances.” Remember, regional variations exist, so if you’re in a specific French-speaking region, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with local expressions. Now that you have a range of formal and informal options, you can confidently express your plans to go on vacation in French and enjoy your trip to the fullest!
