Bonjour! If you’re looking to expand your French vocabulary with the phrase “under the weather,” you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to express that you’re feeling a bit unwell yourself or sympathize with others, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to do so. Let’s dive in and explore the nuances of this phrase in French!
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The Formal Way: “Mal en Point”
Note: The formal term commonly used in France to say “under the weather” is “mal en point.” This expression is acceptable in all French-speaking regions.
When discussing feeling unwell, you may choose to use the more refined expression “mal en point.” In formal situations, this phrase conveys a sense of general discomfort or illness without relying on colloquialisms. Here’s an example of how to incorporate it:
Example 1:
Je ne pourrai pas me rendre au bureau aujourd’hui. Je me sens mal en point.
This translates to:
I won’t be able to come to the office today. I’m feeling under the weather.
Note that “mal en point” is generally used to describe physical discomfort, rather than emotional or mental issues. If you want to express feeling down or out of sorts emotionally, there are other phrases that suit better.
The Informal Way: “Pas dans mon assiette”
If you prefer a more casual approach, you can use the expression “pas dans mon assiette” to convey that you’re feeling a little off. Although less formal than “mal en point,” it is still widely understood across French-speaking regions.
Example 2:
Je suis pas dans mon assiette aujourd’hui. Je vais rester à la maison.
This translates to:
I’m feeling under the weather today. I’ll stay at home.
The phrase “pas dans mon assiette” has a slightly more metaphorical nature, suggesting that something is not quite in place in your life or that you’re not feeling yourself. It can encompass both physical and emotional discomfort.
Alternative Phrases
While “mal en point” and “pas dans mon assiette” are the most common ways to express feeling unwell, there are a few alternative phrases you may come across:
- 1. “Être patraque”: This informal expression is often used to describe a mild state of illness or discomfort; it’s common in both France and Canada.
- 2. “Ne pas être dans son assiette”: This variation of “pas dans mon assiette” uses the general possessive pronoun “son” instead of the first-person pronoun “mon” to convey a sense of detachment. It can be used in more formal situations.
- 3. “Se sentir barbouillé(e)”: This phrase describes a feeling of queasiness or being a bit sick to your stomach. It may not be as commonly used as the other expressions, but it’s still worth mentioning.
Remember that regional variations exist in every language, and French is no exception. Depending on the francophone region, you might hear some local expressions to convey being under the weather. However, as this guide focuses on more universally recognized terms, we’ve covered the basics that will serve you in any French-speaking setting.
Conclusion
Now armed with the formal and informal ways to say “under the weather” in French, you can confidently express your discomfort or sympathize with others. Whether you choose the refined “mal en point” or the casual “pas dans mon assiette,” these phrases will help you navigate various situations and conversations.
Remember to use “mal en point” in more formal contexts, and “pas dans mon assiette” when conversing informally. Don’t forget to explore alternative phrases like “être patraque,” “ne pas être dans son assiette,” or “se sentir barbouillé(e)” to add depth to your vocabulary. Each of these expressions conveys the idea of feeling unwell in its own unique way.
So, next time you’re not feeling your best, use one of these phrases to express yourself in French. Wishing you a speedy recovery and many opportunities to practice your new expressions!
