Bon rétablissement
/bɔ̃ ʁe.ta.blis.mɑ̃/
The English phrase "I hope you feel better" can be translated into French as Bon rétablissement.
Bon rétablissement is used specifically to wish someone a quick recovery from a physical or mental illness or injury. It is not typically used to describe someone's general mood or emotional state.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Good recovery".
Which one should you use?
While Bon rétablissement is the standard phrase, you can also express this sentiment by saying Je vous souhaite une meilleure santé, which means "I wish you better health".
How does it change in a sentence?
Bon rétablissement is a noun phrase. Unlike the English version, it does not require a verb like "I hope" to be grammatically complete in French.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word rétablissement comes from the verb établir, which means 'to establish'. Wishing someone a 'good recovery' is linguistically akin to wishing them a 'good re-establishment' of their health.
- If someone says Bon rétablissement to you, the standard response is a simple Merci rather than returning the wish, as the phrase only applies to the person who is actually sick.
- In very casual settings, French speakers might skip the formal phrase and simply say Soigne-toi bien, which literally means 'treat yourself well'.
Examples in context
- J'espère que vous vous sentirez mieux bientôt.I hope you will feel better soon.
- Je vous souhaite un prompt rétablissement.I wish you a speedy recovery.
- J'espère que tu te sens mieux.I hope you feel better.
- Je souhaite que tu te rétablisses vite.I wish you a fast recovery.
- Je suis désolé/désolée d'apprendre que tu ne te sens pas bien. J'espère vraiment que cela ira mieux rapidement.I'm sorry to hear you're not feeling well. I really hope you get better soon.
- Bon rétablissement et repose-toi bien.Get well soon and rest well.
Example conversation
Hugo visits Emma who is resting at home with a cold.
- HugoTu as l'air fatiguée, Emma.You look tired, Emma.
- EmmaOui, j'ai un gros rhume.Yes, I have a bad cold.
- HugoBon rétablissement, repose-toi bien.Get well soon, rest well.
- EmmaMerci beaucoup, Hugo.Thank you very much, Hugo.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry bon rétablissement.
