Greetings! If you’re here to learn how to say “thirty three” in French, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways to express the number 33, both formally and informally, while providing you with useful tips and examples along the way. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Thirty Three in French
If you find yourself in a formal setting or conversing with someone you don’t know well, it’s essential to use the appropriate language. Here are two formal ways to express “thirty three” in French:
Trente-trois
In formal French, “trente-trois” is the most common way to say “thirty three.” It straightforwardly combines the words “trente” (thirty) and “trois” (three) without any significant regional variations. For example:
- Le compte à rebours s’achève : trente-trois, trente-deux, trente et un… (The countdown comes to an end: thirty-three, thirty-two, thirty-one…)
- Le numéro de notre chambre est le trente-trois. (The number of our room is thirty-three.)
Informal Ways to Say Thirty Three in French
When it comes to informal conversations or casual situations, the French language offers alternative expressions to enliven your interactions. Here are a couple of informal ways to convey “thirty three” in French:
Trois cent trois
Sometimes, in informal French, “trois cent trois” is used as a playfully exaggerated way to express “thirty three.” It literally means “three hundred three,” but when used in context, it adds a touch of humor. Examples include:
- Cette série a déjà trois cent trois épisodes ! (This series already has three hundred three episodes!)
- J’ai reçu trois cent trois compliments pour ma nouvelle coiffure. (I received three hundred three compliments on my new hairstyle.)
Tips and Regional Variations
While “trente-trois” and “trois cent trois” are the most commonly used phrases to say “thirty three” in French, there are a few tips and regional variations worth noting:
1. Accents and Pronunciation
When saying “trente-trois,” remember to pronounce the “en” in “trente” with a nasal sound, similar to the “an” in “ant.” Additionally, French accents must be respected for accurate pronunciation.
2. Decimal System in Quebec
In some Canadian French-speaking areas, such as Quebec, people may use the decimal system to express numbers, including “thirty three.” In this context, you would say “trente virgule trois” (literally “thirty comma three”) instead of “trente-trois.” However, this practice is not as common in other French-speaking regions.
3. Contextual Usage
The choice between formal and informal expressions may depend on the context and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. It’s always wise to adapt your language to the situation to ensure proper communication.
Conclusion
Voilà! You now have a solid understanding of how to say “thirty three” in French. Remember to use “trente-trois” in formal situations and opt for “trois cent trois” in informal conversations. Be mindful of regional variations, such as the decimal system in Quebec, and always consider the context in which you’re communicating. Practice these phrases and enjoy incorporating them into your French conversations. Bonne chance!
