Whether you’re planning a trip to a French-speaking region or simply want to expand your language skills, learning how to say “today is” in French is a great place to start. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this phrase, as well as provide tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Today is” in French
Giving or receiving information in a formal setting requires a certain level of politeness and respect. When expressing “today is” in a formal manner, consider the following phrases:
Aujourd’hui est
The phrase “aujourd’hui est” directly translates to “today is.” However, it is important to note that when speaking formally, French speakers often omit the word “est” (is). Therefore, in a formal context, it is more common to say:
Aujourd’hui
For instance, when telling someone the date formally, you would say:
Aujourd’hui, nous sommes le…
Which translates to “Today, we are the…” followed by the specific date.
This formal expression is widely used in professional settings, formal events, or when addressing people with whom you have a respectful relationship.
Informal Ways to Say “Today is” in French
Informal language allows for a more relaxed and casual approach. When speaking informally, you can use the following phrases:
Aujourd’hui c’est
In this case, the word “c’est” (it is) is used to add emphasis. It is a more colloquial way to express “today is.” For example:
Aujourd’hui c’est un grand jour!
Translating to “Today is a big day!” Here, the use of “c’est” reinforces the speaker’s excitement or emphasis on the current day.
French speakers often use this informal expression among friends, family, or in casual social situations.
Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions across the world, and there may be some regional variations in how “today is” is expressed. However, the use of “aujourd’hui” remains consistent throughout most French-speaking areas. Some minor variations include:
- Québec: Instead of “aujourd’hui,” Québécois speakers may use “au jour d’huît” or “à c’t’heure.”
- Belgium and Switzerland: Similarly, some regions in Belgium and Switzerland may use variations like “à ce jour” or “à l’heure actuelle.”
While these regional differences exist, they are not commonly used and can be safely ignored in most situations.
Examples and Tips
Now that we have explored the various ways to say “today is” in French, let’s look at some examples and helpful tips:
Example 1:
Informal usage:
A friend asks, “Quel jour sommes-nous?” (What day is it today?)
You respond, “Aujourd’hui c’est samedi.” (Today is Saturday.)
Example 2:
Formal usage:
In a business meeting, someone asks for the current date. You respond, “Aujourd’hui, nous sommes le lundi 5 août.” (Today, we are Monday, August 5th.)
Tips:
- Remember to omit “est” when speaking formally.
- When in doubt, it’s safer to use the more formal expression “aujourd’hui” without “est.”
- If you want to sound more casual, use “aujourd’hui c’est” in informal settings.
By grasping the different ways to say “today is” in French, you’ll be better equipped to navigate both formal and informal conversations.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards mastering the French language! Let your new knowledge of “today is” inspire you to explore further, and may your journey be filled with joyful language learning!
