plateau de service
The English phrase "serving tray" is translated into French as plateau de service.
A plateau de service is a flat board or platter used for carrying food and drinks to people. In many contexts, simply saying plateau is sufficient to mean a tray.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of plateau (tray or plateau) and de service (of service or for serving).
Which one should you use?
While plateau de service is the standard term, plateau de présentation is a more formal term used specifically when the tray is intended for presenting food. Additionally, plat de service can also be used to refer to a serving tray in formal contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural "serving trays", use plateaux de service. The x at the end of plateaux indicates the plural form.
Did you know?
- In the French film industry, the set of a movie or television show is called a plateau. This usage comes from the idea of the raised platform where actors perform.
- The word service in this phrase is etymologically linked to the Latin 'servus', meaning 'slave', which reflects the historical role of those performing the act of serving.
- The word plateau shares its root with the English word 'plateau' for a high plain. Both refer to something that is flat or level.
Examples in context
- Pouvez-vous apporter le plateau de service, s'il vous plaît?Could you bring the serving tray, please?
- Apporte-moi le plateau, s'il te plaîtBring me the serving tray, please
- Le plateau de service est très lourd.The serving tray is very heavy.
- Pose le plateau de service sur la table.Put the serving tray on the table.
- Il a besoin d'un nouveau plateau de service.He needs a new serving tray.
Example conversation
In a cafe, a waiter is preparing to serve drinks.
- ChloéHugo, peux-tu m'apporter le plateau de service ?Hugo, can you bring me the serving tray?
- HugoOui Chloé, le voici.Yes Chloé, here it is.
- ChloéMerci, fais attention à ne pas le faire tomber.Thank you, be careful not to drop it.
- HugoNe t'inquiète pas, je suis prudent.Don't worry, I am careful.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, plateau, service, CC BY-SA 4.0.
