Bonnes vacances
The English phrase 'have a great vacation' is translated into French as Bonnes vacances.
Bonnes vacances is a friendly wish used to tell someone to enjoy their time off from work or school. It can be used for both short breaks and long summer holidays.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Bonnes vacances literally translates to 'Good vacations'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is always plural because vacances is a feminine plural noun in French.
When do people say it?
A common response to this wish is Merci, toi aussi ! if speaking to a friend or Merci, vous aussi ! if speaking to a superior or a group.
Did you know?
- While vacances refers to time off, the word vacance in the singular typically refers to an unoccupied position or a 'vacancy' in a job or a building.
- The word vacances shares a root with the English word 'vacant' and the Latin 'vacare', meaning 'to be empty'.
- In a professional setting, if a boss says Bonnes vacances to an employee, the employee should respond with Merci, vous aussi only if the boss is actually going on holiday themselves.
Examples in context
- Cher Monsieur Dupont, passez de bonnes vacances et profitez de votre temps libre!Dear Mr. Dupont, have a great vacation and enjoy your time off!
- Chère Madame Dubois, je vous souhaite de passer d'excellentes vacances remplies de détente et de bonheur!Dear Mrs. Dubois, I wish you an excellent vacation filled with relaxation and happiness!
- Salut Julie! Passe de bonnes vacances et profite bien de ton séjour à la plage!Hi Julie! Have a great vacation and enjoy your time at the beach!
- Coucou Thomas! Je te souhaite de passer d'excellentes vacances en famille. Amuse-toi bien!Hey Thomas! I wish you an excellent vacation with your family. Have fun!
- Je pars en Italie demain, bonnes vacances !I am leaving for Italy tomorrow, have a great vacation!
- Bonnes vacances à toute la famille !Have a great vacation with your whole family!
- Bonnes vacances, on se voit en septembre.Have a great vacation, see you in September.
- Je vous souhaite de bonnes vacances.I wish you a great vacation.
Example conversation
Gabriel is leaving for a trip and saying goodbye to his colleague Léa at the office.
- LéaAlors, c'est le départ pour la mer ?So, are you leaving for the seaside?
- GabrielOui, je pars demain matin.Yes, I am leaving tomorrow morning.
- LéaBonnes vacances, Gabriel !Have a great vacation, Gabriel!
- GabrielMerci, Léa, à bientôt.Thank you, Léa, see you soon.
