mari
/ma.ʁi/
The English phrase "hubby" can be translated into French as mari.
The term mari is used to refer to a husband.
Meaning: husband (noun)
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While English speakers might use "hubby" in casual conversation, the French mari remains the standard way to refer to a husband in most social contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, mon chum is an informal way to say hubby.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ma.ʁi/ and consists of 2 syllables.
Did you know?
- In some very specific French slang contexts, mari can be a clipped form of marijuana, though it is never used this way to mean 'husband'.
- If you want to say 'my hubby' in an affectionate, modern way, you might use mon petit mari instead of just mon mari.
- In France, a woman might refer to her 'hubby' as mon homme, which literally translates to 'my man'.
Examples in context
- Mon mari et moi avions l'habitude d'aller ensemble faire de l'escalade.My hubby and I used to go mountain climbing together.Tatoeba #1168008 by sacredceltic, translation #1167468 by CK
- Mon mari est très gentil.My husband is very kind.
Example conversation
Manon and Lucas are talking about a weekend trip.
- ManonMon mari veut aller à la plage.My husband wants to go to the beach.
- LucasC'est une excellente idée !That is an excellent idea!
- ManonIl adore nager en mer.He loves swimming in the sea.
- LucasMoi aussi, je viens avec vous.Me too, I will come with you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mari, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mari, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
