Learning to express oneself in different languages is a wonderful skill that helps broaden our understanding of different cultures and enhances our communication abilities. In this guide, we will explore how to say “themselves” in French, covering both formal and informal ways. We’ll also walk through some tips, examples, and even touch upon regional variations when necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Themselves” in French
When it comes to expressing “themselves” in a formal or polite manner, the French language offers a few options:
1. Eux-Mêmes
In formal situations, “themselves” can be translated as “eux-mêmes” in French. This expression is used when referring to a group of people, and it remains the same regardless of gender. For instance:
Les étudiants ont organisé la fête eux-mêmes. (The students organized the party themselves.)
Les politiciens se sont réunis pour discuter entre eux-mêmes. (The politicians gathered to discuss amongst themselves.)
2. Elles-Mêmes (Feminine)
When referring to a specific group of females, “themselves” is translated as “elles-mêmes.” Here are a couple of examples:
Les femmes se sont préparées pour le spectacle elles-mêmes. (The women prepared for the show themselves.)
Les actrices ont répété leurs lignes entre elles-mêmes. (The actresses rehearsed their lines amongst themselves.)
Informal Ways to Say “Themselves” in French
Informal situations allow for a more relaxed tone. Here are a couple of common ways to say “themselves” casually:
1. Eux
When used in an informal context, “eux” can also represent “themselves.” Let’s see it in action:
Les enfants peuvent habiller les poupées eux. (The children can dress the dolls themselves.)
Les amis se sont rencontrés et ont fait la cuisine eux. (The friends met and cooked themselves.)
2. Elles (Feminine)
For informal situations involving a group of females, “elles” can serve as the equivalent of “themselves.” Consider the following examples:
Les filles ont coiffé leurs cheveux elles. (The girls styled their hair themselves.)
Les sportives ont formé une équipe et ont gagné le match elles. (The female athletes formed a team and won the game themselves.)
Advanced Tips and Considerations
Reflexive Pronouns
It is important to note that the French language, unlike English, often uses reflexive pronouns when referring to actions done by the subject to themselves. When “themselves” is part of a reflexive verb, the pronoun used will depend on the subject:
- Je me vois (I see myself)
- Tu te parles (You talk to yourself)
- Il se lave (He washes himself)
- Elle se prépare (She prepares herself)
- Nous nous amusons (We entertain ourselves)
- Vous vous entendez (You hear yourselves)
- Ils se reposent (They rest themselves)
- Elles se parlent (They talk to themselves)
Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions, and some idiomatic expressions or regional variations may exist. It is worth noting that while the basics of expressing “themselves” remain the same, certain regions may have unique usages or alternative vocabulary. However, these variations are less important in everyday conversation:
Les gens se réunissent pour célébrer entre eux-autres. (The people gather to celebrate amongst themselves in some regions.)
Ils se connaissent bien entre eux-z’autres. (They know each other well amongst themselves in certain areas.)
Conclusion
Expressing “themselves” in French can be done in various ways depending on the formality and the gender of the group. Whether you opt for the formal “eux-mêmes” or the informal “eux” and “elles,” understanding these expressions will allow you to communicate more effectively with French speakers. Remember to pay attention to reflexive pronouns and be aware of any regional variations that may exist. Practice using these expressions, and soon you’ll find yourself confidently expressing “themselves” in French!
