je suis célibataire
The English phrase "I am single" is translated into French as je suis célibataire.
This phrase is a statement used to express that a person is not in a romantic relationship or is not married.
Which one should you use?
While célibataire refers to a person's legal or social status of being single, it is distinct from seul, which describes the state of being physically alone.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word célibataire is an invariable adjective, meaning it does not change its spelling regardless of whether the subject is masculine or feminine.
Did you know?
- While célibataire is the standard term, French speakers often use the slang expression être un cœur à prendre to say they are single and looking for love.
- In French administrative contexts, the term célibataire is a legal status that includes people who have never been married, as well as those who are divorced or widowed in certain specific forms.
- The word célibataire is derived from the concept of 'celibacy', which originally implied a religious vow of abstinence rather than just a relationship status.
Examples in context
- Je suis célibataire.I am single.This sentence is useful for stating that you are single.Tatoeba #13850 by sacredceltic, translation #1550951 by miflhanc
- Je suis célibataire depuis un an.I have been single for a year.
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are talking about their relationship status.
- HugoEst-ce que tu as un petit ami, Chloé ?Do you have a boyfriend, Chloé?
- ChloéNon, je suis célibataire en ce moment.No, I am single at the moment.
- HugoMoi aussi, je suis célibataire.Me too, I am single.
- ChloéC'est intéressant, Hugo !That's interesting, Hugo!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries célibataire, je, suis, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
