How to Say “Good Vibes” in French

bonnes ondes
The English phrase "good vibes" can be translated into French as bonnes ondes.
A common way to use it is with the verb envoyer (to send), as in envoyer de bonnes ondes to mean "to send good vibes" to someone.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is a literal translation of "good waves": bonnes means "good" and ondes means "waves" or "vibrations".

Which one should you use?

You can also use Bonne ambiance to describe a good atmosphere or the full phrase Ça dégage de bonnes ondes to say "it gives off good waves".

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

bonnes ondes is an informal expression often used in spiritual or New Age contexts. For a more formal way to communicate the idea of a positive atmosphere, you can use Atmosphère positive. Bonne ambiance is an informal alternative.

Did you know?

  • In France, using bonnes ondes can sometimes be seen as a 'calque', which is a word-for-word translation from English that some linguistic purists avoid.
  • The verb dégager, used in Ça dégage de bonnes ondes, literally means 'to clear' or 'to empty', but in this context, it describes how energy radiates from a person.
  • The phrase envoyer des ondes can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation if used alone, implying someone is trying to influence you through telepathy.

Examples in context

  • Cet événement est caractérisé par une atmosphère positive.
    This event is characterized by a positive atmosphere.
  • Ce bar a une super bonne ambiance!
    This bar has a great vibe!
  • Ce groupe de musique dégage de bonnes ondes!
    This band gives off good vibes!
  • Il y a de bonnes ondes ici.
    There are good vibes here.
  • Je veux juste de bonnes ondes.
    I just want good vibes.
  • Ce festival diffuse de bonnes ondes.
    This festival radiates good vibes.

Example conversation

Emma and Lucas are at a colorful outdoor party.

  1. Emma

    J'adore l'ambiance de cette fête.
    I love the atmosphere of this party.
  2. Lucas

    Oui, il y a de bonnes ondes.
    Yes, there are good vibes.
  3. Emma

    Lucas, tu sens cette énergie ?
    Lucas, do you feel this energy?
  4. Lucas

    Absolument, c'est génial.
    Absolutely, it's great.
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Penelope Stephanie
Penelope StephanieHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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