moi et mes amis
The English phrase "me and my friends" is translated into French as moi et mes amis.
This phrase is used to refer to the speaker and a group of people they are close to. You may also encounter the terms copain or copine, which translate to buddy or pal in English.
Which one should you use?
While moi et mes amis is a direct translation, it is more common and polite in French to place the other people before yourself by saying mes amis et moi. If you wish to use slang, you can use the word potes to refer to friends, as seen in the phrase moi et mes potes.
What mistakes should you avoid?
To be more polite and follow standard French usage, place the other people first by using mes amis et moi.
Did you know?
- In French, the word copain literally means 'companion of bread', coming from co- meaning 'with' and pain meaning 'bread'.
- While ami means 'friend', the slang term pote is derived from the word pot, referring to the shared drinking vessels used during traditional social gatherings.
- The word copain can be used to mean both a platonic friend and a romantic boyfriend, depending on the context of the conversation.
Examples in context
- Mes amis et moi avons décidé de visiter Paris ce week-end.My friends and I have decided to visit Paris this weekend.
- Mes copines et moi, on va aller prendre un café en ville.Me and my girlfriends are going to have a coffee downtown.
- Mes amis et moi, nous allons au cinéma.My friends and I are going to the cinema.
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas are talking about their weekend plans.
- EmmaQu'est-ce que tu fais samedi ?What are you doing on Saturday?
- LucasJe vais au parc avec mon chien.I am going to the park with my dog.
- EmmaMoi et mes amis, nous allons à la plage.Me and my friends, we are going to the beach.
- LucasC'est une super idée, Emma !That's a great idea, Emma!
