Connie Elise
Learning how to express that you were sick in French is a useful skill to have when communicating with French speakers. Whether you want to share your state of health with a colleague, friend, or medical professional, this guide will provide you with various ways to express “I was sick” in both formal and informal contexts. It’s important to note that while regional variations may exist, we will focus on widely used expressions across the French-speaking world.
Formal Expressions
Formal situations typically involve professional settings, interactions with people you don’t know well, or situations where you need to maintain a polite tone. Here are some formal expressions you can use when discussing your illness:
1. J’ai été malade.
Translation: I was sick.
This direct and to-the-point expression is commonly used in formal settings. It indicates that you were ill but doesn’t provide specific details.
Example:
Colleague: Comment ça va? (How are you?)
You: J’ai été malade. (I was sick.)
2. J’ai eu une maladie.
Translation: I had an illness.
This phrase is more formal and emphasizes that you had an actual disease or illness rather than just a general feeling of being unwell.
Example:
Doctor: Qu’est-ce qui vous est arrivé? (What happened to you?)
You: J’ai eu une maladie. (I had an illness.)
3. J’ai souffert d’une maladie.
Translation: I suffered from an illness.
If you want to emphasize the physical or emotional suffering caused by your illness, this expression is an appropriate choice.
Example:
Friend: Pourquoi tu n’étais pas à la fête hier? (Why weren’t you at the party yesterday?)
You: J’ai souffert d’une maladie. (I suffered from an illness.)
Informal Expressions
Informal situations, such as conversations with friends, family, or close acquaintances, allow for a more relaxed tone. Here are some informal expressions you can use when discussing your illness:
1. J’étais malade.
Translation: I was sick.
This simple and commonly used expression in informal contexts conveys that you were ill without being overly detailed.
Example:
Friend: Pourquoi tu n’es pas venu au cinéma hier soir? (Why didn’t you come to the movies last night?)
You: J’étais malade. (I was sick.)
2. J’étais mal en point.
Translation: I was in bad condition.
This expression emphasizes that you were in a fragile or weakened state due to your illness.
Example:
Sibling: T’étais où pendant les vacances? (Where were you during the holidays?)
You: J’étais mal en point. (I was in bad condition.)
3. J’ai été cloué(e) au lit.
Translation: I was bedridden.
If you want to convey that your illness was severe enough to keep you confined to bed, this expression is perfect.
Example:
Family Member: On t’a cherché partout ce week-end! (We looked for you everywhere this weekend!)
You: J’ai été cloué(e) au lit. (I was bedridden.)
Conclusion
Now that you have learned both formal and informal ways to say “I was sick” in French, you will be able to communicate your condition effectively in various contexts. Remember to tailor your choice of expression based on the level of formality required, and consider the severity and details you want to convey about your illness. The examples provided should help you gain a better understanding of how to use each expression. Practice these phrases, and soon enough, you’ll be confidently discussing your past illnesses in French!
