Whether you are learning French for business, travel, or personal interest, expanding your vocabulary to include common phrases and expressions is essential. One such phrase you might encounter is “other than that,” which comes in handy when clarifying or contrasting information. In French, there are several ways to convey this idea, depending on the level of formality and the context in which you are speaking. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “other than that” in French, providing you with helpful tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Expressions:
Formal expressions are commonly used in business settings, academic environments, or any situation that requires a more professional tone. Here are some commonly used formal phrases to say “other than that” in French:
1. À part cela
One of the most common ways to say “other than that” in formal French is “à part cela”. It signifies a clear separation between the previous information and the new point being made. For example:
“J’ai écouté attentivement toutes vos propositions. À part cela, je suis convaincu que nous devrions étudier d’autres options.”
Translation: “I have carefully listened to all your proposals. Other than that, I am convinced that we should explore other options.”
2. En dehors de cela
“En dehors de cela” is another formal expression that can be used to convey “other than that”. It implies something beyond the current subject matter. For instance:
“Nous avons réussi à atteindre nos objectifs trimestriels. En dehors de cela, nous devons également penser à long terme.”
Translation: “We have successfully achieved our quarterly goals. Other than that, we also need to think long-term.”
Informal Expressions:
Informal expressions are commonly used in everyday conversations, among friends, and in casual settings. They add a touch of familiarity and can help you sound more natural when speaking French. Here are a few informal ways to say “other than that” in French:
1. Sinon
“Sinon” is a versatile expression that translates to “otherwise” or “if not” in English. It can be used in various situations to convey the idea of “other than that.” Here’s an example:
“Je pense que nous avons tous les ingrédients pour le gâteau. Sinon, nous pouvons toujours aller en acheter.”
Translation: “I think we have all the ingredients for the cake. Other than that, we can always go buy them.”
2. À part ça
“À part ça” is an informal expression that directly translates to “apart from that.” It is a casual way to transition to a different topic or provide additional information. Consider the following example:
“J’ai passé une bonne journée à la plage. À part ça, j’ai rencontré une ancienne amie.”
Translation: “I had a great day at the beach. Other than that, I met an old friend.”
Tips for Using “Other Than That” in French:
To sound more natural and confident when using the various expressions for “other than that” in French, here are a few additional tips:
1. Pay Attention to Context
When choosing the appropriate phrase, it’s essential to consider the context in which you are speaking. Formal expressions are more suitable for professional settings, while informal expressions work best in casual conversations.
2. Practice Pronunciation
To ensure your French sounds authentic, focus on pronunciation. Listening to native French speakers, imitating their intonation, and practicing the phrases out loud can greatly enhance your spoken French skills.
3. Consider Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions, and some expressions may vary depending on the location. However, the listed phrases work well in most French-speaking regions. Still, it’s always helpful to familiarize yourself with regional variations if necessary.
Conclusion:
Being able to express “other than that” in French is an invaluable skill for effective communication. By using the formal phrases “à part cela” or “en dehors de cela” in appropriate contexts, you can convey your point with precision and professionalism. For more casual conversations, the informal expressions “sinon” or “à part ça” will help you sound more natural and at ease. Remember to pay attention to context and practice pronunciation to ensure your French flows smoothly. With these tips and examples at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate conversations effortlessly while adding a touch of sophistication to your language repertoire.
