la maman a toujours raison
The English phrase "mother knows best" can be translated into French as la maman a toujours raison.
This phrase is used to suggest that a mother's advice or judgment is always correct.
What does it mean word for word?
The literal translation of la maman a toujours raison is "the mom has always reason".
Which one should you use?
While the English "knows best" implies a sense of wisdom or superior judgment, the French equivalent focuses on the fact that the mother's opinion is correct or right.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the phrase expresses being correct by using the verb avoir (to have) with raison (reason) rather than using a verb for "knowing".
Did you know?
- While la maman a toujours raison is a common sentiment, French culture often balances this with a strong emphasis on l'esprit critique or the spirit of critical questioning in education.
- The word raison in la maman a toujours raison is a relative of the English word 'ration'. Both come from the Latin word ratiōnem.
Example conversation
Nathan and Léa are discussing their mother's advice on a project.
- NathanJe pense que nous devrions essayer autre chose.I think we should try something else.
- LéaNon Nathan, la maman a toujours raison.No Nathan, mother knows best.
- NathanC'est vrai, elle a beaucoup d'expérience.That's true, she has a lot of experience.
- LéaExactement, suivons donc ses conseils.Exactly, so let's follow her advice.
