j'ai treize ans
The English phrase "I am thirteen years old" is expressed in French as j'ai treize ans.
This phrase is used to state your current age.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "I have thirteen years" because French uses the verb avoir (to have) instead of être (to be) to express age. The phrase begins with j'ai, which is the contraction of je (I) and ai (have). This contraction occurs because ai starts with a vowel.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase starts with the contraction j'ai. Additionally, the word ans (years) is grammatically required at the end of the phrase. You cannot simply say j'ai treize to express your age.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the verb être (to be) to say je suis treize ans. In French, you must use the verb avoir (to have) instead.
Did you know?
- In French, the verb avoir is used for many internal states beyond age, such as j'ai peur for 'I am afraid' or j'ai sommeil for 'I am sleepy'.
- Saying je suis treize instead of j'ai treize ans changes the meaning from your age to claiming that you actually are the number 13.
- While ans is used for age, the word années is used when describing the duration of time or a specific span of years.
Examples in context
- Je ne peux pas dire que j'ai treize ans.I cannot say that I am thirteen years old.
- Sais-tu que j'ai treize ans ?Do you know that I am thirteen years old?
Example conversation
Two students are talking during a break at school.
- ChloéTu as quel âge, Nathan ?How old are you, Nathan?
- NathanJ'ai treize ans. Et toi, Chloé ?I am thirteen years old. And you, Chloé?
- ChloéMoi aussi, j'ai treize ans.Me too, I am thirteen years old.
- NathanAh, nous sommes dans la même classe alors !Ah, we are in the same class then!
