Jacques a dit
/ʒa.k‿a di/France
In French, the game Simon says is called Jacques a dit in France. If unsure, use Jacques a dit. Wiktionary also lists Jean dit.
Meaning: children's game (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Jacques a dit | /ʒa.k‿a di/ | France |
| Jean dit | Quebec |
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means Jacques has said.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, the game is commonly known as Jean dit, which means Jean says.
How does it change in a sentence?
The French name uses a past tense of the verb meaning to say, whereas the English name uses the present tense.
How do you pronounce it?
It is pronounced /ʒa.k‿a di/, with the final sound of Jacques running straight into a.
Did you know?
- In French, Jacques was historically used as a generic term for a peasant. Using this name for the leader of the game reflects a long-standing cultural association with the common folk.
- The word dit in this phrase comes from the Latin dictus, which is the same root used for English words like 'dictionary' and 'dictation'.
Examples in context
- Jacques a dit : « Debout ! »Simon says: "Stand!"The leader says Jacques a dit before the order Debout, stand up.Tatoeba #484597 by sacredceltic, translation #484599 by sacredceltic
- Elle adore jouer à Jacques a dit.She loves playing Simon Says.
Example conversation
Two children are playing in a park.
- HugoEmma, tu veux jouer à Jacques a dit ?Emma, do you want to play Simon Says?
- EmmaOui, Hugo, je suis prête !Yes, Hugo, I am ready!
- HugoJacques a dit : touche ton nez !Simon says: touch your nose!
- EmmaC'est fait !Done!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “simon says” translations and entries Jacques a dit, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Jacques, Jean, a, dit, jean, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
