Bonjour and welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “sister-in-law” in French. Whether you want to impress your French-speaking family or friends, or simply want to expand your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this relationship, and dive into regional variations if necessary. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Terms for Sister-in-Law in French
When it comes to formal terms, French differentiates between older sister-in-law (wife of an older sibling) and younger sister-in-law (wife of a younger sibling). Let’s explore both:
1. Belle-sœur – Older Sister-in-Law
The most common term used for older sister-in-law in French is “belle-sœur.” This term applies whether you are referring to the wife of your older brother or sister.
For example:
Ma belle-sœur est très gentille. (My older sister-in-law is very kind.)
However, when you want to specifically mention your brother’s wife, you can use the following term:
1.1 Belle-sœur (de mon frère) – Brother’s Wife
In this case, “belle-sœur” can be used, followed by a specification indicating it is your brother’s wife. The inclusion of “de mon frère” clarifies the relationship.
For example:
J’ai rencontré la belle-sœur de mon frère hier soir. (I met my brother’s wife last night.)
2. Belle-sœur – Younger Sister-in-Law
Similarly, “belle-sœur” is the most commonly used term for a younger sister-in-law. Whether the person is your younger brother’s wife or your younger sister’s spouse, this term applies.
For example:
Ma belle-sœur est très gentille. (My younger sister-in-law is very kind.)
If you want to specify that it is your sister’s spouse, you can use the following term:
2.1 Belle-sœur (de ma sœur) – Sister’s Spouse
By including “de ma sœur,” you clarify that the person is your sister’s spouse.
For example:
J’adore passer du temps avec la belle-sœur de ma sœur. (I love spending time with my sister’s spouse.)
Informal Ways to Say Sister-in-Law
French is a language known for its informal expressions, so let’s explore the more relaxed and colloquial terms used for sister-in-law:
1. Frangine – Older and Younger Sister-in-Law
Informally, French speakers sometimes use the term “frangine” to refer to their sister-in-law. This term can be used for both older and younger sister-in-law.
For example:
J’ai eu une excellente soirée avec ma frangine hier. (I had a great evening with my sister-in-law yesterday.)
2. Belle-frangine – Older and Younger Sister-in-Law
Another informal term is “belle-frangine,” which is a blend of “belle-sœur” and “frangine.” It can also be used to refer to both older and younger sister-in-law.
For example:
Viens, on va passer du temps ensemble, ma belle-frangine ! (Come, let’s spend some time together, my sister-in-law!)
Regional Variations
French language spoken in different regions may have specific local variations for referring to sister-in-law. Here are a few examples:
1. Marâtre – Southern France
In some regions of southern France, particularly in Provence, “marâtre” is used as a colloquial term for sister-in-law, both older and younger.
For example:
On invite la marâtre à dîner ce soir. (We’re inviting my sister-in-law to dinner tonight.)
2. Choute – Quebec, Canada
In Quebec, Canada, the term “choute” is commonly used when referring to a sister-in-law, regardless of the age difference.
For example:
Je vais chez ma choute ce week-end. (I’m going to my sister-in-law’s this weekend.)
Note: While these regional variations exist, it’s important to remember that they may not be universally recognized across the French-speaking world.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now expanded your French vocabulary with several ways to say “sister-in-law” in both formal and informal contexts. Remember that “belle-sœur” is the most commonly used term in formal situations, while “frangine” and “belle-frangine” are informal and relaxed. We’ve also explored a couple of regional variations for sister-in-law terms. Whether you’re conversing with French speakers or impressing your friends and family, you now have the tools to navigate these relationships with ease. Bonne chance (good luck) and enjoy your newfound knowledge of French vocabulary!
