grand-mère
standard
The standard word for "grandmother" in Quebec French is grand-mère. In daily speech Quebecers often say grand-maman.
Meaning: mother of a parent (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| grand-mère | standard |
| grand-maman | Quebec, everyday |
Use ma grand-mère when you talk about her, and grand-maman when you talk to her.
Which one should you use?
Both words are understood everywhere in the French-speaking world. Grand-maman is the form you will hear most from Quebec children.
How do you pronounce it?
Grand-mère sounds like "grahn mehr".
Did you know?
- The plural of grand-mère is grands-mères, with an s on grands.
Examples in context
- Ma grand-mère vient de Gaspé.My grandmother comes from Gaspé.
- Grand-maman, raconte-moi une histoire.Grandma, tell me a story.
- Mes grands-mères sont toutes deux nées au Québec.Both my grandmothers were born in Quebec.
Example conversation
Zoé asks her grandmother Madeleine about her childhood in Rimouski.
- ZoéGrand-maman, tu habitais où?Grandma, where did you live?
- MadeleineÀ Rimouski, près du fleuve.In Rimouski, near the river.
- ZoéJ'aimerais y aller.I would like to go there.
