bonnes vacances
The English phrase 'have a good holiday' is translated into French as bonnes vacances.
bonnes vacances is used to wish someone an enjoyable time during their vacation. Unlike English, which often uses a verb like 'have' or 'wish', this French phrase is a standalone noun phrase used as an interjection to wish someone well.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase bonnes vacances literally translates to 'good holidays' or 'good vacations'.
What mistakes should you avoid?
In French, the word vacances is always plural when referring to a holiday or vacation period. Using the singular bonne vacance is a mistake.
Did you know?
- The plural form vacances is so essential that the word is 'plurale tantum', meaning it rarely exists in the singular when referring to a holiday. A singular vacance actually refers to an empty position or a 'vacancy' in a job.
- The word vacances comes from the Latin 'vacans', meaning 'empty'. It originally referred to a period when a seat or a position was unoccupied.
- When wishing someone bonnes vacances, French speakers often accompany the phrase with a 'bise', a light kiss on the cheeks, depending on the relationship.
Examples in context
- Madame Dupont, je vous souhaite de passer de bonnes vacances!Mrs. Dupont, I wish you a good holiday!
- Monsieur Martin, je vous souhaite d'excellentes vacances!Mr. Martin, I wish you excellent holidays!
- Salut Pauline! Bonnes vacances! Amuse-toi bien!Hi Pauline! Have a great holiday! Have fun!
- Coucou Marc! Profite bien de tes vacances! On se voit à ton retour!Hey Marc! Enjoy your holidays! See you when you get back!
- Bonnes vacances à tous !Have a good holiday, everyone!
- Je vous souhaite de bonnes vacances.I wish you a good holiday.
- Passe de bonnes vacances, mon ami.Have a good holiday, my friend.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are colleagues saying goodbye before a trip.
- HugoJe pars demain pour le sud.I am leaving for the south tomorrow.
- ManonC'est super, bonnes vacances Hugo !That's great, have a good holiday, Hugo!
- HugoMerci beaucoup, Manon.Thank you very much, Manon.
- ManonProfite bien du soleil.Enjoy the sun.
