Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean
The English phrase "happy st-jean-baptiste day" is translated into French as Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean.
This greeting is used specifically on June 24th to celebrate the Quebec national holiday.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Good feast of the Saint-John".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, the phrase Bonne Saint-Jean-Baptiste, mon chum! is used to mean "Happy St-Jean-Baptiste Day, buddy!" In Quebec, Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean is the standard way to celebrate the national holiday.
How does it change in a sentence?
In this context, la Saint-Jean is used as a noun phrase referring to the holiday itself, rather than just the saint.
Did you know?
- In Quebec, this day is often referred to as la fête nationale because it has evolved from a religious feast for a saint into a secular celebration of Quebecois identity.
- While Bonne fête usually means 'Happy Birthday' in Quebec, saying Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean specifically refers to the national holiday and not a person's birthday.
- The word fête in this phrase shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'feast', tracing back to the Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to establish' or 'to set'.
Examples in context
- Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean à tout le monde !Happy Saint-Jean Day to everyone!
- Je vous souhaite une bonne fête de la Saint-Jean.I wish you a happy Saint-Jean Day.
- Bonne fête de la Saint-Jean, profitez bien de la journée !Happy Saint-Jean Day, enjoy the day!
Example conversation
Two friends meet outside a cafe on the holiday.
- ChloéSalut Hugo, bonne fête de la Saint-Jean !Hi Hugo, happy Saint-Jean Day!
- HugoMerci Chloé, bonne fête à toi aussi.Thanks Chloé, happy Saint-Jean Day to you too.
- ChloéTu vas voir le feu de joie ce soir ?Are you going to see the bonfire tonight?
- HugoOui, avec mes amis plus tard.Yes, with my friends later.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, fête, la, CC BY-SA 4.0.
