une table pour trois
une table pour trois is the French way to say table for three.
This phrase is typically used as a fragment when arriving at a restaurant or as part of a full sentence like Je voudrais une table pour trois (I would like a table for three). You can also ask Avez-vous une table pour trois de libre? to ask if a table for three is available.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of une (a), table (table), pour (for) and trois (three).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, one might say Une table pour trois, s'il vous plaît.
How does it change in a sentence?
While une table pour trois is common in casual speech, adding personnes (people) to make une table pour trois personnes makes the request more complete and formal.
Did you know?
- While table refers to furniture, the French word tôle is a linguistic sibling derived from the same Latin word for 'tablet', but it now means 'sheet metal'.
- In France, it is customary to wait for the host to lead you to your seat rather than choosing your own table, as doing so can be seen as impolite.
- In France, if you arrive without a reservation, simply saying une table pour trois might be met with a shrug, as many popular bistros require bookings days in advance.
Examples in context
- J'aimerais réserver une table pour trois personnes.I'd like to reserve a table for three.This sentence is useful for expressing the desire to reserve a table for three using une table pour trois.Tatoeba #180909 by Aiji, translation #29045 by CM
- Bonjour, je voudrais une table pour trois, s'il vous plaît.Hello, I would like a table for three, please.
Example conversation
Chloé and Gabriel arrive at a busy bistro.
- ChloéBonjour, est-ce que vous avez une table pour trois ?Hello, do you have a table for three?
- GabrielOui, bien sûr. Suivez-moi, s'il vous plaît.Yes, of course. Follow me, please.
- ChloéMerci beaucoup.Thank you very much.
- GabrielJe vous en prie. Voici votre menu.You're welcome. Here is your menu.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pour, table, trois, une, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
