c'est ma mère
The English phrase "this is my mom" is translated into French as c'est ma mère.
This phrase is used to introduce one's mother to another person.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "it is my mother" because c'est is a contraction of ce (this/it) and est (is).
Which one should you use?
C'est ma mère is the standard way to introduce her, whereas Voici ma mère (Here is my mother) is a slightly more formal way to present her.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more affectionate or casual tone, you can use C'est ma maman, which translates to "this is my mommy/mom". In strictly formal contexts, you might use Permettez-moi de vous présenter ma mère (Allow me to introduce my mother to you) or Je vous présente ma mère (I present to you my mother). Conversely, in informal settings, you can say Tu vois, c'est ma mère (You see, this is my mom) or Je te présente ma mère (Let me introduce my mom to you).
Did you know?
- The French word mère is a homonym for the word maire, meaning 'mayor', though they are spelled differently.
- In French, the word mère can also be used as an adjective to describe the original or primary source of something, such as la langue mère for a 'mother tongue'.
- While mère is the standard word for 'mother', the affectionate term maman is often used by French adults when speaking to or about their own mothers, regardless of their age.
Examples in context
- Permettez-moi de vous présenter ma mère, Madame Dupont.Allow me to introduce my mother, Mrs. Dupont.
- Voilà ma mère, Sophie.This is my mom, Sophie.
- Je vous présente ma mère.I present to you my mother.
- C'est ma mère.This is my mother.
Example conversation
Léa introduces her mother to Hugo at a party.
- LéaHugo, c'est ma mère.Hugo, this is my mother.
- HugoEnchanté de vous rencontrer.Nice to meet you.
- LéaElle voulait te rencontrer.She wanted to meet you.
- HugoC'est très gentil.That is very kind.
