Bonjour! Are you planning to have an amazing weekend in France? Well, to make the most of it, it’s essential to know how to talk about “this weekend” in French. Whether you want to converse formally or informally, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “this weekend” in French, and provide you with useful tips and examples along the way. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “This Weekend” in French
When conversing in a formal setting, such as business meetings, official emails, or professional events, it’s crucial to use proper expressions. Here are some formal ways to say “this weekend” in French:
1. Ce weekend
One simple and widely-used way to say “this weekend” in French is “ce weekend.” This expression is suitable for formal contexts and can be easily understood by native French speakers.
Example:
– Nous devons finaliser le rapport ce weekend. (We need to finalize the report this weekend.)
2. Ce prochain weekend
If you want to specify that you’re referring to the upcoming weekend, you can use the expression “ce prochain weekend.” This adds a bit more clarity and is useful if you need to plan activities in advance.
Example:
– La conférence aura lieu ce prochain weekend. (The conference will take place this upcoming weekend.)
2. Informal Ways to Say “This Weekend” in French
When it comes to informal conversations with friends, family, or colleagues you’re comfortable with, there are slightly different expressions you can use. These options reflect a more relaxed and casual tone. Let’s explore them:
1. Ce weekend
Just like in formal settings, “ce weekend” can also be used in informal contexts and is widely understood. It’s a versatile expression that suits various situations.
Example:
– On se voit ce weekend ? (Shall we meet this weekend?)
2. Ce week-end
In a more casual atmosphere, you may hear “ce week-end” instead of “ce weekend.” It has the same meaning and is commonly used among friends and peers.
Example:
– Tu viens à la fête ce week-end ? (Are you coming to the party this weekend?)
3. Tips for Using “This Weekend” in French
Now that we’ve covered the formal and informal expressions for saying “this weekend” in French, here are some additional tips to navigate conversations effectively:
i. Non-specific days
French expressions for “this weekend” generally refer to the whole duration of the upcoming weekend, encompassing both Saturday and Sunday. However, if you want to refer specifically to a particular day, it’s better to use the names of the days instead of using “ce weekend” or any other general expression.
Example:
– On se voit samedi soir ? (Shall we meet on Saturday evening?)
ii. Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout France, it’s worth noting that certain regional variations exist. For instance, people from Québec often use the expression “cette fin de semaine” to mean “this weekend.” So, if you find yourself in Québec, you might encounter this variation.
iii. Contextual Cues
When discussing plans or events, it’s important to provide additional context to ensure clarity. Mentioning specific activities or destinations associated with the weekend will help convey your message more effectively.
iv. Verbal Cues
Accompanying your expressions with appropriate verbal cues, such as tone and intonation, can further enhance your communication. Make sure to adapt your tone to the situation and emphasize the appropriate words to express your intentions clearly.
4. Summary
Voilà! Now you’re equipped with a variety of ways to say “this weekend” in French. Whether you’re engaging in a formal conversation or a casual chat, you can confidently utilize these expressions to navigate your discussions smoothly. Remember to consider the context, provide additional details when necessary, and adapt your verbal cues to effectively communicate your plans or preferences. Profitez bien de votre weekend (Enjoy your weekend)!
