Bonjour! Learning how to express your preferences in another language is a fantastic way to connect with native speakers. In French, expressing your likes and hobbies is fun and easy. So, whether you want to say “I like to do” formally or informally, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge you need. Let’s dive in and explore the various ways to express your preferences in French!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When using formal expressions, it’s important to demonstrate respect and politeness. Here are some common ways to say “I like to do” formally in French:
1. J’aime faire
One simple and versatile way to express your likes is by using the phrase “J’aime faire” followed by a verb. For example:
J’aime faire du sport. (I like to do sports.)
This construction is used to express general activities, hobbies, or pastimes. If the verb begins with a vowel, you should use “J’aime faire de” instead:
J’aime faire de la randonnée. (I like to go hiking.)
2. J’apprécie de faire
In more formal settings, you can use the expression “J’apprécie de faire” to convey your likes:
J’apprécie de faire du jardinage. (I enjoy gardening.)
This phrase adds a sense of appreciation and enjoyment to your statement, making it more formal and refined.
3. J’aime bien pratiquer / J’aime vraiment faire
If you want to emphasize your fondness for a specific activity, you can use expressions such as “J’aime bien pratiquer” (I quite like to practice) or “J’aime vraiment faire” (I really like to do).
J’aime bien pratiquer le yoga. (I quite like to practice yoga.)
J’aime vraiment faire de la cuisine. (I really like to cook.)
Using these phrases adds an extra layer of enthusiasm while still maintaining a formal tone.
Informal Expressions:
Informal expressions offer a more casual way to express your preferences in French. Here are some colloquial and popular ways to say “I like to do” informally:
1. J’adore faire
A common expression used among friends is “J’adore faire” which translates to “I love to do.” It conveys a strong liking for an activity:
J’adore faire la fête. (I love to party.)
This informal phrase expresses a higher level of enjoyment.
2. J’aime trop faire
When you want to express great enthusiasm for an activity, the phrase “J’aime trop faire” is quite popular among French speakers:
J’aime trop faire du shopping ! (I really love to go shopping!)
“J’aime trop” intensifies your liking, and when coupled with “faire,” it creates a strong statement of affection and enjoyment.
3. Je kiffe faire
Among younger generations, an informal and trendy way to express your love for an activity is by using “Je kiffe faire” which roughly translates to “I’m crazy about doing.”:
Je kiffe faire du skateboard. (I’m crazy about skateboarding.)
This phrase adds a touch of modern slang and demonstrates a high level of personal attachment to the activity.
Examples:
Now that you’re familiar with the formal and informal expressions, let’s take a look at some examples using different activities:
- J’aime faire du vélo. (I like to go biking.)
- J’apprécie de faire des promenades en forêt. (I enjoy going for forest walks.)
- J’aime bien pratiquer la natation. (I quite like to go swimming.)
- J’aime vraiment faire du théâtre. (I really like to do theater.)
- J’adore faire du ski. (I love to go skiing.)
- J’aime trop faire de la danse. (I really love to dance.)
- Je kiffe faire du surf. (I’m crazy about surfing.)
Feel free to mix and match these expressions with your favorite hobbies to form personalized sentences that suit your preferences!
Remember, the key to mastering the language is practice, so make sure to incorporate these expressions into your everyday conversations or writing exercises.
Bonne chance! (Good luck!)
And there you have it! A comprehensive guide on how to say “I like to do” in French, covering both formal and informal expressions. These phrases will help you connect with native speakers and express your preferences with confidence. Keep exploring the beautiful French language and enjoy the process of language learning. Happy communicating!
