What does it mean word for word?
The phrase mon chou literally translates to "my cabbage."
Which one should you use?
While mon chou is a common affectionate term, mon chéri is used specifically when addressing a man and ma chérie is used specifically when addressing a woman. You might use mon cœur, which means "my heart" or mon trésor, which means "my treasure."
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain parts of France, particularly in the north, people often use the informal expression mon loulou to mean "my darling" or "my sweetie". In the southwestern regions of France, the term mon canard, which literally means "my duck", is used as a term of endearment.
When do people say it?
In France, it is common to use various nouns as terms of endearment for loved ones, ranging from food items like mon chou (my cabbage) to animals like mon canard (my duck) or precious objects like mon trésor (my treasure).
Did you know?
- The word mon may have been influenced by the Gaulish word mon for 'my'. This suggests that the way French speakers express possession in love was shaped by the Celtic people who lived in France before the Romans.
- While mon chou uses the masculine 'mon', you can use it to address a woman as a term of endearment.
- Terms like mon chou and mon cœur are often used by parents for their children and by partners for each other. However, using them with a stranger or a professional colleague would be considered an inappropriate breach of social boundaries.
Examples in context
- Coucou mon cœur, je pense à toi toute la journée.Hey my darling, I think of you all day long.
- Salut mon loulou, tu me fais toujours sourire.Hey my darling, you always make me smile.
- Coucou mon canard, je t'aime plus que tout.Hello my darling, I love you more than anything.
- Tu es adorable, mon chou.You are adorable, my darling.
- Viens ici, mon chou.Come here, my darling.
- Je t'aime, mon chou.I love you, my darling.
Example conversation
A couple is relaxing on the sofa at home.
- EmmaTu as passé une bonne journée, mon chou ?Did you have a good day, my darling?
- NathanOui, c'était très calme, Emma.Yes, it was very calm, Emma.
- EmmaJe suis contente pour toi.I am happy for you.
- NathanMerci, tu es très gentille.Thank you, you are very kind.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chou, mon, CC BY-SA 4.0.
