Learning how to express the concept of “know when” in French can be quite useful, as it allows you to discuss time-related matters, schedule events, and make plans. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to convey this idea, providing you with plenty of tips and examples along the way. So, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, let’s uncover the various ways to say “know when” in French!
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Formal Ways to Say “Know When”
When speaking in formal situations or addressing someone with whom you should show respect, consider using the following phrases to express the notion of “know when” in French:
1. Savoir quand
Savoir quand, which literally translates to “know when,” is the most straightforward and commonly used formal expression. It can be used in a variety of contexts and works well in both written and spoken French. Here’s an example:
Est-ce que vous savez quand le concert aura lieu ?
(Do you know when the concert will take place?)
2. Être au courant de
Another formal way to convey “know when” in French is by using the phrase être au courant de, which means “to be aware of.” Although it is not as direct as savoir quand, it is equally valid and commonly used:
Je voulais simplement m’assurer que vous êtes au courant de notre réunion.
(I just wanted to make sure you are aware of our meeting.)
Informal Ways to Say “Know When”
When in casual settings or conversations with friends and family, you can opt for less formal expressions to convey the idea of “know when” in French. Here are a couple of commonly used informal phrases:
1. Savoir quand même
In informal French, you can use the phrase savoir quand même to mean “know when” or “know anyway.” While it carries a sense of informality, it is widely understood and utilized:
Je ne sais pas encore quand même si je peux venir à la fête.
(I don’t know yet if I can come to the party, anyway.)
2. Savoir vers quelle heure
An alternative way to express “know when” in informal conversations is by using the phrase savoir vers quelle heure, meaning “know around what time.” It provides some flexibility concerning precision and works well for relaxed situations:
Tu sais vers quelle heure on doit arriver à la gare ?
(Do you know around what time we should arrive at the station?)
Tips for Using “Know When” Expressions
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when using these “know when” expressions in French:
1. Combine with Other Time-Related Vocabulary
To provide more specific information, combine the “know when” expressions with other time-related vocabulary, such as days of the week, months, or specific hours:
Tu sais quand le film sortira en avril ?
(Do you know when the movie will be released in April?)
2. Pay Attention to Verb Conjugation
Be mindful of conjugating the verb “savoir” correctly according to the subject and tense in your sentence. This helps convey the intended meaning and maintain grammatical accuracy:
Il ne sait pas encore quand le match commencera.
(He doesn’t know yet when the game will start.)
3. Adapt Your Vocabulary for Different Situations
Consider adjusting your choice of expression depending on the context, formality, and your relationship with the interlocutor. Formal situations often require polite expressions, whereas informal conversations allow for more relaxed language:
Savez-vous quand se terminera la réunion, madame Dupont ?
(Do you know when the meeting will end, Mrs. Dupont?) (Formal)
Tu sais quand ça finit, ce truc ?
(Do you know when this thing ends?) (Informal)
Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of this comprehensive guide on how to say “know when” in French! You’ve learned formal and informal expressions, along with helpful tips and examples to enhance your language skills. Remember to adapt your vocabulary and level of formality to suit different situations, and always pay attention to verb conjugation. With practice, mastering “know when” in French will become second nature, enabling you to effectively communicate time-related information in any conversation.
