midi et demi
The English phrase "twelve thirty" is translated into French as midi et demi.
The phrase is used to specify the time of day that is thirty minutes after twelve noon.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase midi et demi literally translates to noon and a half.
Which one should you use?
Use midi et demi specifically for 12:30 PM. For 12:30 AM, you would use minuit et demi.
Did you know?
- In France, the word midi is used as a noun to refer to the south of the country, such as in the phrase le Midi.
- The word midi is actually a compound of two words: mi meaning 'middle' and di meaning 'day'.
- French speakers use the specific word midi for noon because using the number twelve douze in this context is uncommon in spoken French.
Examples in context
- On mangera ensemble à midi et demi.We will have lunch together at twelve-thirty.This sentence is useful for describing a planned time for eating lunch with the form midi et demi.Tatoeba #4839206 by kamillel, translation #4838962 by Muelisto
- Il est douze heures trente.It is twelve thirty.
- Douze heures et demie, ça te convient ?Twelve thirty, is it okay for you?
- On se retrouve à midi et demi devant l'entrée ?Shall we meet at twelve thirty in front of the entrance?
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their lunch plans over the phone.
- NathanTu es libre à midi et demi ?Are you free at twelve thirty?
- EmmaOui, je peux déjeuner avec toi.Yes, I can have lunch with you.
- NathanParfait, je passerai te chercher.Perfect, I will come pick you up.
- EmmaD'accord, à tout à l'heure !Okay, see you later!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries demi, et, midi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
