j'ai un animal de compagnie
To say "I have a pet" in French, use j'ai un animal de compagnie.
This phrase is used to state that you own an animal for companionship.
What does it mean word for word?
The term animal de compagnie translates literally as "animal of companionship".
Did you know?
- The word compagnie is a close relative of the common French word copain, which means 'friend' or 'buddy'. Both share the same root meaning 'someone you share bread with'.
- In France, the term animal de compagnie is often used in legal contexts to distinguish pets from animaux d'élevage, which are livestock raised for profit.
- While animal de compagnie is the general term, French speakers often use the specific animal's name, such as mon chien or mon chat, even when they would say 'my pet' in English.
Examples in context
- J'ai un animal de compagnie, un chat.I have a pet, a cat.
- J'ai un animal de compagnie à la maison.I have a pet at home.
- Est-ce que tu sais que j'ai un animal de compagnie ?Did you know that I have a pet?
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are talking about their hobbies at a cafe.
- EmmaNathan, j'ai un animal de compagnie, un petit chien.Nathan, I have a pet, a little dog.
- NathanC'est super, Emma ! Quel est son nom ?That's great, Emma! What is his name?
- EmmaIl s'appelle Max.His name is Max.
- NathanIl doit être très mignon.He must be very cute.
