Salut! If you’re eager to learn how to say “then” in French, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll cover both the formal and informal ways to express this useful word. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate learner, by the end of this journey, you’ll have a solid grasp of how to use “then” in various contexts.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Then” in French
Let’s start by exploring the formal ways to express “then” in French. In formal settings, such as business conversations, official documents, or academic writing, it’s important to use the appropriate vocabulary. Here are a few options:
1. Ensuite
The most common formal equivalent for “then” in French is “ensuite”. It smoothly connects actions or ideas in a sequence. For example:
J’ai fini de rédiger le rapport. Ensuite, je l’ai envoyé à mon responsable. (I finished writing the report. Then, I sent it to my supervisor.)
Note that “ensuite” can also be used at the beginning of a sentence to indicate “next” or “afterwards”. It brings a sense of organization and clarity to your speech or writing.
2. Puis
Another formal term for “then” is “puis”. It implies a logical progression or a chronological order. Consider the following example:
J’ai terminé ma présentation. Puis, j’ai répondu aux questions du public. (I finished my presentation. Then, I answered the audience’s questions.)
“Puis” is often used in written French, particularly in narratives, essays, or formal speeches. It conveys a sophisticated tone and is highly recommended in formal written expressions.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Then” in French
Now, let’s delve into the informal ways of saying “then” in French. When chatting casually with friends, family, or peers, you can add a touch of informality to your speech by using the following expressions:
1. Alors
In everyday conversations, “alors” is a common informal equivalent of “then”. It is versatile and can mean “so” or “well” in certain contexts. Check out these examples:
J’ai mangé une pizza. Alors, je me suis promené dans le parc. (I ate a pizza. Then, I took a walk in the park.)
Tu as fini tes devoirs? Alors, on peut jouer aux jeux vidéo. (Have you finished your homework? Well, then, we can play video games.)
“Alors” can be used both in spoken and written informal French. Just remember that in some cases, it might carry an additional meaning depending on the context.
2. Ensuite / Après ça
In informal conversations, you can still use “ensuite” or “après ça” as alternatives to “then”. They are less formal than their counterparts mentioned earlier. Take a look:
J’ai pris une douche. Ensuite, je me suis habillé. / J’ai pris une douche. Après ça, je me suis habillé. (I took a shower. Then, I got dressed.)
Both “ensuite” and “après ça” are widely used in everyday spoken French. They bring a relaxed and natural vibe to your conversations with friends or acquaintances.
Additional Tips for Using “Then” in French
To enhance your understanding of using “then” in French, here are some extra tips and examples to help you along the way:
1. Regional Variations
As you explore the French-speaking world, you may encounter regional variations for expressing “then”. In Quebec, for instance, many French speakers use “après” or “pi” (short for “puis”) as informal alternatives. While these variations are not as common in standard French, it’s good to be aware of them if you plan to interact with native French speakers from different regions.
2. Adverb and Conjunction
Keep in mind that “then” in English can function as both an adverb and a conjunction. In French, “alors” and “ensuite” primarily serve as adverbs while “puis” can be used as both an adverb and a conjunction. Understanding how “then” functions in different contexts will allow you to choose the most appropriate translation.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
As with any language skill, practicing the usage of “then” in French will enhance your fluency and confidence. Engage in conversations, practice writing, and explore French literature or movies to expose yourself to various contexts where “then” is commonly used. The more you practice, the more natural and intuitive it will become!
Voilà! Now you have a comprehensive guide on how to say “then” in French. Whether you need to express it formally or informally, you have a range of options to choose from. Remember to adapt your choice of expression according to the context and level of formality. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll master the art of using “then” in French with ease!
