arrière-grand-mère
The English phrase 'great grandma' is translated into French as arrière-grand-mère.
This phrase is used to refer to the mother of one's grandmother or grandfather.
What does it mean word for word?
The prefix arrière- literally means 'back' or 'behind', and it is used here to indicate the generation preceding the grandparents.
Which one should you use?
While arrière-grand-mère is the standard term, you may also encounter arrière-grand-maman in more affectionate contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Arrière-grand-mère is a common and formal way to refer to a great grandmother. In contrast, arrière-grand-maman is an informal and warm, affectionate way to say 'great-grandma'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some areas of Quebec, Canada, the term arrière-mémé may be used to refer to great grandmothers.
Did you know?
- To describe a great-great-grandmother, French speakers simply stack the prefix again to create arrière-arrière-grand-mère.
- The prefix arrière- used in arrière-grand-mère is the same one used to describe the 'rear' of a car or the 'back' of a building.
- While arrière-grand-mère is the correct term, using it directly to address a family member can sound clinical or cold to French speakers.
Examples in context
- Mémé, tu es la meilleure arrière-grand-maman du monde!Grandma, you are the best great grandma in the world!
- Mon arrière-grand-mère est très gentille.My great-grandma is very kind.
- Elle a une photo de son arrière-grand-mère.She has a photo of her great-grandmother.
- Je vais rendre visite à mon arrière-grand-mère.I am going to visit my great-grandmother.
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are talking about family history.
- LéaEst-ce que tu connais ton arrière-grand-mère ?Do you know your great-grandmother?
- NathanNon, elle est décédée il y a longtemps.No, she passed away a long time ago.
- LéaMa chère arrière-grand-mère m'a raconté beaucoup d'histoires.My dear great-grandmother told me many stories.
- NathanC'est vraiment précieux.That is truly precious.
