change
The English phrase "money change" translates to change in French.
The smaller coins or bills returned to someone after they pay for something with a larger denomination.
Which one should you use?
While la monnaie refers to the change returned from a transaction, it also refers to "loose change" or "small coins" in general.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Bureau de Change is a term used in the context of money exchange offices.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use le changement to mean money change, but changement refers to a transformation or a change in state (like a change in weather).
Did you know?
- The word monnaie is derived from the Latin moneta, which was a nickname for the goddess Juno. Her temple in Rome was used as the office where coins were minted.
- The phrase faire la monnaie means to provide small change, but it can also be used idiomally to mean 'to count' or 'to value' something, such as 'faire la monnaie de sa pièce' which means to settle a score.
- The French word monnaie does not just mean 'change' but is also the general term for 'currency'. For example, the phrase la monnaie unique is used to describe the Euro as the single currency of the Eurozone.
Examples in context
- Quel est le taux de change actuel?What is the current exchange rate?
- Où puis-je trouver un bureau de change?Where can I find a currency exchange bureau?
- Pouvez-vous me faire de la monnaie pour un billet plus gros?Can you give me change for a larger bill?
- Gardez la monnaie.Keep the change.
Example conversation
At a coffee shop, Gabriel is paying for his drink.
- GabrielVoici vingt euros pour mon café.Here are twenty euros for my coffee.
- ManonMerci, voici votre change.Thank you, here is your change.
- GabrielMerci, et gardez le change.Thanks, and keep the change.
- ManonC'est très gentil, Monsieur.That is very kind, sir.
