ma chère
The English phrase "my dear" is translated into French as ma chère.
ma chère is an affectionate term used to address a person who is loved or cherished. It can also be used sarcastically in a condescending manner, similar to how "my dear" functions in certain English contexts.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of the possessive adjective ma (my) and the feminine adjective chère (dear/expensive).
Is it said differently in some regions?
The expression Mon doudou is used in some French-speaking regions to address loved ones or children, similar to the English "my teddy bear".
How does it change in a sentence?
Use the feminine form ma chère when addressing a woman. Use the masculine form mon cher when addressing a man. For a romantic partner, such as a boyfriend, spouse or sweetheart, you might use Mon chéri.
Did you know?
- The word chère shares an ancient ancestor with the word for 'face', specifically the Greek kára, which meant head or face.
- In formal French correspondence, Mon cher or Ma chère is often used as a polite but distant opening, rather than a sign of intimacy.
- While English speakers use 'dear' to mean both beloved and high-priced, the French word chère carries this dual meaning of affection and high cost even more sharply.
Examples in context
- Merci ma chère !Thank you, my dear.This sentence shows how to express gratitude using ma chère.Tatoeba #1924315 by sacredceltic, translation #1923455 by Spamster
- Tout ce que tu veux, ma chère.Anything you want, my dear.This sentence demonstrates using ma chère to express compliance with a loved one.Tatoeba #3337195 by sacredceltic, translation #3329482 by Hybrid
- Franchement, ma chère, je n'en ai cure !Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn!This sentence illustrates a more forceful or dramatic use of ma chère.Tatoeba #1557373 by sacredceltic, translation #1557097 by Spamster
- Mon cher, comment ça va?My dear, how are you?
- Mon chéri, tu me manques.My darling, I miss you.
- 22 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Emma is comforting Hugo after a long day.
- EmmaTu as l'air fatigué, ma chère.You look tired, my dear.
- HugoC'est vrai, la journée était longue.It's true, the day was long.
- EmmaRepose-toi un peu, ma chère.Rest a bit, my dear.
- HugoMerci beaucoup, Emma.Thank you very much, Emma.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chère, ma, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
