ma
feminine singular
Before a feminine noun French says ma, as in ma maison. Before a feminine noun that starts with a vowel it says mon, and the plural for both genders is mes.
Meaning: my, before a feminine noun (determiner)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| ma | feminine singular |
| mon | before a vowel |
| mes | plural |
Use ma with feminine singular nouns that start with a consonant, such as ma mère, ma sœur or ma voiture.
How does it change in a sentence?
Mon amie and mon école use mon even though the nouns are feminine, because ma would clash with the vowel. The choice follows the noun and not the speaker.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not say ma amie. The correct form is mon amie.
Did you know?
- Mon is also used before a feminine adjective that starts with a vowel, as in mon ancienne école.
Examples in context
- Ma maison est petite.My house is small.
- Mon amie est là.My friend is here.
- Mes sœurs habitent à Nice.My sisters live in Nice.
Example conversation
Claire shows Paul around her home.
- ClaireVoici ma cuisine.Here is my kitchen.
- PaulEt ça, c'est ton école ?And is that your school?
- ClaireNon, c'est mon ancienne école.No, it is my old school.
