When it comes to discussing weather and temperature, knowing how to express it in different languages can be quite helpful. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say the temperature in French, both formally and informally. We will also touch on regional variations if they are relevant. So, let’s dive in and learn how to talk about the temperature in French!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When speaking in a formal context, it is important to use appropriate language. Here are some common phrases to express temperature formally in French:
1. Il fait chaud.
This phrase translates to “It is hot.” It is a general expression used to describe high temperatures or warm weather conditions.
2. Il fait froid.
Here we have the opposite of the previous expression. “Il fait froid” means “It is cold.” This phrase is used to describe low temperatures or chilly weather conditions.
3. La température est de X degrés Celsius.
If you want to be specific about the temperature, you can say “La température est de X degrés Celsius,” which means “The temperature is X degrees Celsius.” In this phrase, replace “X” with the specific temperature you want to convey.
4. La température atteint X degrés Celsius.
This phrase is similar to the previous one, but it emphasizes that the temperature has reached or achieved a specific value. For instance, you can say “La température atteint 30 degrés Celsius” which translates to “The temperature reaches 30 degrees Celsius.”
5. Nous avons une canicule.
If you want to express a heatwave, a period of extremely hot weather, you can say “Nous avons une canicule.” This phrase is commonly used in formal contexts to describe intense heatwaves.
Informal Expressions:
When talking with friends or family, you may want to use more casual expressions to describe the temperature. Here are some informal ways to talk about the temperature in French:
1. Il fait super chaud / Il fait méga chaud.
These expressions are the informal equivalents of “Il fait chaud.” Both “Il fait super chaud” and “Il fait méga chaud” mean “It is really hot.” The addition of “super” or “méga” intensifies the level of heat.
2. Il fait super froid / Il fait gelé.
In an informal setting, you can say “Il fait super froid” or “Il fait gelé,” both of which mean “It is freezing.” These expressions convey extreme coldness in a more casual way.
3. Il fait un temps de chien.
When the weather is terrible, you can use the expression “Il fait un temps de chien” which literally translates to “It is dog weather.” This phrase is used colloquially to describe unpleasant weather conditions, regardless of the temperature.
4. On crève de chaud / On se les gèle.
To express extreme heat, you can say “On crève de chaud” which means “We are dying of heat.” On the other hand, if you want to say that it is extremely cold, use “On se les gèle,” which translates to “We are freezing.”
Regional Variations:
While the temperature expressions mentioned above are widely used throughout the French-speaking world, regional variations do exist. Here are a few examples:
1. Il fait rikiki chaud (Québec).
In Quebec, Canada, you may come across the expression “Il fait rikiki chaud” when referring to very hot weather. “Rikiki” is a Quebecois slang term that means “very small” or “tiny.” So, saying “Il fait rikiki chaud” adds a touch of local flavor when talking about extremely hot temperatures in Quebec.
2. Il fait un temps à se griller les méninges (France).
In France, there is an expressive phrase to describe incredibly hot weather: “Il fait un temps à se griller les méninges.” This phrase literally translates to “It is a weather to grill your brain.” It showcases the French flair for poetic and vivid language.
Few Tips and Examples:
1. Using Celsius:
In France, Celsius is the standard unit of measurement for temperature. Therefore, when discussing temperature in French, it is common to use degrees Celsius instead of Fahrenheit. Remember to use “degrés Celsius” to indicate the unit.
2. Talking about the forecast:
If you want to discuss the weather forecast, you can use phrases such as “Selon les prévisions, il fera chaud demain” (According to the forecast, it will be hot tomorrow) or “On annonce des températures basses cette semaine” (Low temperatures are expected this week).
3. Comparing temperatures:
When comparing temperatures, you can use phrases like “Il fait plus chaud aujourd’hui qu’hier” (It is hotter today than yesterday) or “La température est moins élevée que la semaine dernière” (The temperature is lower than last week).
4. Always consider the context:
When discussing the temperature, take into account the local climate, the time of year, and the situation. The expressions used may vary depending on these factors. Additionally, it is essential to adapt your language based on the formality of the conversation and the relationship with the person you’re speaking to.
Now that you have an extensive list of phrases and expressions to use when talking about the temperature in French, you can confidently engage in weather-related conversations. Remember to consider the formality of the situation, adapt to regional variations if necessary, and always maintain a warm and friendly tone. Happy conversing in French!
