vive la révolution
/viv la ʁe.vɔ.ly.sjɔ̃/
The English phrase "long live the revolution" is translated into French as vive la révolution.
When you are specifically referring to the historical period known as the French Revolution, you should capitalize the noun as Vive la Révolution !
Meaning: Translations (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the subjunctive verb vive (live), the definite article la (the) and the noun révolution (revolution).
How does it change in a sentence?
The word vive is the third-person singular present subjunctive form of the verb vivre (to live), used here to express a wish or desire.
Did you know?
- During the French Revolution, slogans like this were often accompanied by the 'phrygian cap', a red conical hat that became a visual synonym for the phrase vive la révolution.
- The word révolution shares a common ancestor with the English word 'revolve' through the Latin verb 'revolvere', meaning 'to turn around'.
- In modern French, révolution is used colloquially to describe a total overhaul of a non-political system, such as a 'revolution' in a kitchen layout or a fashion trend.
Examples in context
- Vive la Révolution !Long live the Revolution!This example shows how to use the phrase vive la révolution.Tatoeba #9707475 by shekitten, translation #9707126 by shekitten
- Vive la Révolution! Nous devons continuer à lutter pour la liberté et l'égalité!Long Live the Revolution! We must continue fighting for freedom and equality!
- Vive la Révolution! On ne se laissera pas réduire au silence!Long Live the Revolution! We will not be silenced!
- Vive la révolution, mes amis !Long live the revolution, my friends!
- Il a crié : vive la révolution !He shouted: long live the revolution!
Example conversation
Lucas and Manon are discussing a history project.
- LucasRegarde ce vieux drapeau, Manon.Look at this old flag, Manon.
- ManonIl est magnifique, vive la révolution !It is magnificent, long live the revolution!
- LucasC'est un symbole très fort.It is a very strong symbol.
- ManonOui, c'est passionnant.Yes, it is fascinating.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “long live the revolution” translations and entries vive la révolution, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries la, révolution, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
