prière d'action de grâce
The English phrase "grace prayer" is translated into French as prière d'action de grâce.
This phrase refers to a short prayer of thanks typically said before or after a meal. While prière d'action de grâce is the noun used to name the prayer itself, if you want to describe the action of saying grace, the common verbal expression is dire le bénédicité.
What does it mean word for word?
The component action de grâce literally translates to "act of thanks" or "thanksgiving".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In more formal or traditional settings, the specific term for the short prayer said before a meal is le bénédicité.
Did you know?
- An English speaker might be surprised to find that action de grâce is the same term used for the entire holiday of 'Thanksgiving' in French-speaking contexts.
- The term bénédicité is derived from a Latin imperative, meaning it is technically a direct command to 'bless' rather than a description of a prayer.
- Outside of a religious meal context, the word grâce is used to describe 'mercy' or 'favor', such as when a legal authority grants 'grace' to a prisoner.
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are sitting down for dinner.
- LucasOn peut dire la prière d'action de grâce ?Can we say the grace prayer?
- LéaOui, Lucas, je t'écoute.Yes, Lucas, I'm listening.
- LucasMerci pour ce repas délicieux.Thank you for this delicious meal.
- LéaC'est très gentil, merci.That is very kind, thank you.
