services publics
The English phrase "utilities" is translated into French as services publics.
In a French context, services publics refers to essential infrastructure and services like water, electricity and gas.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of services (services) and publics (public), literally meaning "public services".
Which one should you use?
Services publics is a formal and general term used to refer to utilities in French, and you may also use the formal services d'utilité publique to mean "public utility services".
Did you know?
- The term service public is deeply tied to the French legal principle of continuité du service public, which prohibits essential utilities from stopping work during strikes.
- If you are looking for the 'utility bill' in France, you would rarely use the word utilité, which is a 'false friend' that refers more to the abstract concept of 'usefulness' than to a service like electricity.
- In France, the concept of service public extends far beyond utilities to include the national railway, the postal service and even the police.
Examples in context
- Je dois payer mes factures ce soir. J'espère que l'électricité n'est pas trop chère ce mois-ci.I have to pay my bills tonight. I hope the electricity is not too expensive this month.
- L'appartement que j'ai loué comprend les charges . Donc, je n'aurai pas à m'inquiéter des dépenses supplémentaires.The apartment I rented includes the utilities. So, I won't have to worry about additional expenses.
- Les services publics devraient investir davantage dans les énergies renouvelables.Public utilities should invest more in renewable energy.
- Les services publics sont essentiels pour la ville.Public utilities are essential for the city.
Example conversation
Manon and Lucas are discussing their new apartment budget.
- ManonLe loyer est bas, mais les services publics sont à part.The rent is low, but the utilities are separate.
- LucasEst-ce que c'est très cher ?Is it very expensive?
- ManonOui, les services publics coûtent environ cent euros.Yes, the utilities cost about one hundred euros.
- LucasD'accord, je vais préparer l'argent.Okay, I will prepare the money.
