minou, minou
The English phrase "here kitty kitty" can be translated into French as minou, minou.
This phrase is used to call a cat or to attract its attention. To mimic the English "here kitty kitty", speakers typically add Par ici (over here) before the repetitive name to create the phrase Par ici, minou, minou ! You may also use the informal phrase Viens par ici, minou to say "Come over here, kitty". For a more affectionate and playful approach, you can say Viens là, mon gros matou to mean "Come here, my big tomcat".
How does it change in a sentence?
Repeating the name minou twice is a common way to create a rhythmic, calling sound intended to attract a pet's attention.
Did you know?
- If you want to be even more playful, you can use minet or minou as a way to address a lover, similar to how English speakers might use 'kitty' or 'kitten' in an intimate setting.
- While minou is used to call a cat, the word chat is the standard term for the animal itself. If you call out Chat, chat! in a park, people might think you are calling for a person named 'Chat' or simply shouting the name of the species.
- Depending on the region, some French speakers might use the word minette instead of minou when calling a female cat.
Examples in context
- Par ici, minou, minou !Here, kitty kitty!This sentence is useful for practicing how to say "Here, kitty kitty!" using minou, minou.Tatoeba #1809119 by sacredceltic, translation #799217 by FeuDRenais2
- J'ai des croquettes pour toi, viens par ici, minou!I have some kibbles for you, come over here, kitty!
- Minou, minou, viens ici !Kitty, kitty, come here!
Example conversation
Manon and Nathan are trying to find a lost cat in the garden.
- ManonMinou, minou, sors de là !Kitty, kitty, come out of there!
- NathanJe ne le vois pas, Manon.I don't see him, Manon.
- ManonRegarde, il est sous le buisson.Look, he is under the bush.
- NathanAh oui, je le tiens !Ah yes, I've got him!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
