Whether you’re planning your next trip to a francophone country or simply interested in learning the French language, knowing how to say “vacances” (meaning “vacation” or “holiday”) is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to express this concept in French, along with some tips, examples, and a few regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Vacances” in French
In formal situations, such as business or academic contexts, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal phrases to use when referring to “vacances”:
1. Congés
“Congés” is a formal term commonly used in administrative and professional settings to convey the idea of vacation or time off. Here are a few examples:
Je prends mes congés en juillet cette année. (I’m taking my vacation in July this year.)
Les congés annuels sont prévus du 1er au 15 août. (The annual leave is scheduled from August 1st to 15th.)
2. Période de repos
When referring to a vacation as a period of rest, you can use the formal phrase “période de repos.” Here’s how to incorporate it into your conversations:
J’ai besoin de prendre une période de repos pour me ressourcer. (I need to take a vacation to recharge.)
La période de repos est essentielle pour maintenir un bon équilibre de vie. (Taking time off is essential to maintain a good work-life balance.)
Informal Ways to Say “Vacances” in French
When chatting with friends, family, or in more casual settings, you can use these informal expressions to talk about vacations:
1. Vacances
In everyday conversations, the word “vacances” is the most commonly used term to refer to vacations or holidays. It’s simple, widely understood, and suits most situations. Here are a couple of examples:
J’ai hâte d’être en vacances cet été. (I can’t wait to be on vacation this summer.)
On part en vacances à la plage demain. (We’re going on vacation to the beach tomorrow.)
2. Congés payés
“Congés payés” specifically refers to paid time off from work. It’s similar to the English term “paid leave” and is commonly used in informal discussions:
J’utilise mes congés payés pour partir à l’étranger. (I’m using my paid leave to go abroad.)
Les congés payés sont une excellente occasion de se détendre. (Paid leave is an excellent opportunity to relax.)
Regional Variations
While many French-speaking regions share similar terms for vacation, there are some regional variations that are worth mentioning:
Belgian French
In Belgian French, the term “vacances” remains prevalent. However, you may also encounter the term “koté” in informal conversations, particularly among younger generations:
Je pars en koté en juillet. (I’m going on vacation in July.)
On se retrouve après les kotés pour partager nos expériences. (Let’s meet up after our vacations to share our experiences.)
Québécois French
In Quebec, the word “vacances” is widely used, but you’ll also encounter the informal term “congé” for holidays or vacation time:
Je prends un congé cet hiver pour aller faire du ski. (I’m taking a vacation this winter to go skiing.)
Les congés de Noël sont toujours agréables en famille. (Christmas vacations are always enjoyable with family.)
Tips for Using “Vacances” Correctly
Now that you know how to say “vacances” in both formal and informal contexts, here are a few additional tips to ensure you use the term correctly:
1. Plural Noun Agreement
Remember that “vacances” is always used in the plural form, so make sure any accompanying adjectives or verbs match this plural form:
Mes vacances sont fantastiques. (My vacations are fantastic.)
J’ai réservé mes vacances d’été. (I booked my summer holidays.)
2. Prepositions
When discussing vacation plans or activities during vacations, you’ll often need to use prepositions. Here are some common examples:
J’ai visité Paris pendant mes vacances. (I visited Paris during my vacation.)
Nous partons en vacances avec des amis. (We’re going on vacation with friends.)
3. Gender Agreement
Remember to match the gender of “vacances” when using possessive adjectives or other gender-dependent modifiers:
J’ai passé deux semaines fantastiques à la mer pendant mes vacances. (I spent two fantastic weeks at the seaside during my vacation.)
Ses vacances d’été étaient plus longues que les miennes. (His/Her summer vacation was longer than mine.)
By utilizing these tips and expressions, you’ll be able to confidently talk about “vacances” in French, whether you’re having a formal conversation, chatting casually with friends, or visiting different French-speaking regions. Bonnes vacances!
