What does it mean word for word?
The phrase j'arrive is literally "I arrive", using the present tense of the verb arriver.
Which one should you use?
While the English phrase "I am coming" can be translated literally as je viens (from the verb venir), French speakers use j'arrive to indicate they are on their way to a destination.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec French, the informal phrase J'm'en viens. is used to mean "I'm coming." In Belgian French, J'arrive de suite. is commonly used to say "I am coming right away."
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that you were in the process of coming (for example, "I was on my way when something happened"), use the imperfect tense j'arrivais.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use je viens to mean "I am on my way". However, in French, j'arrive is the standard way to express that you are approaching a location.
Did you know?
- In French, the verb arriver does not just mean 'to arrive', but can also mean 'to happen' when used impersonally, as in il arrive que.
- In Belgium, the phrase de suite used in J'arrive de suite means 'immediately', whereas in France it more often means 'subsequently' or 'afterwards'.
- A French speaker might say j'arrive while they are still putting on their shoes or haven't even left the house yet.
Examples in context
- J'arrive.I am coming.This example demonstrates the use of j'arrive.Tatoeba #10718 by sysko, translation #65918 by CK
- Attends, j'arrive !Wait, I'm coming!
- J'arrive dans cinq minutes.I'll be there in five minutes.
- Ne t'inquiète pas, j'arrive.Don't worry, I'm coming.
Example conversation
Nathan is waiting for Manon in the living room.
- ManonManon, on part maintenant !Manon, we are leaving now!
- NathanJ'arrive, je cherche mes clés.I'm coming, I'm looking for my keys.
- ManonDépêche-toi, on est en retard.Hurry up, we are late.
- NathanD'accord, j'arrive !Okay, I'm coming!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
