French is a beautiful language, and knowing how to express “we go” is an essential skill for any French learner. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “we go” in French, providing you with tips, examples, and even regional variations where necessary. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “We Go” in French
When it comes to formal ways of saying “we go” in French, there are a few different options you can use. Let’s explore some of the most common ones:
- Nous allons: This is the standard and most commonly used way to express “we go” in formal French. It is the plural form of the verb “aller” (to go). For example, “Nous allons au cinéma ce soir” translates to “We are going to the cinema tonight.”
- Nous partons: Another formal variation to say “we go” in French is to use the verb “partir” (to leave). For instance, “Nous partons pour Paris demain” can be translated as “We are leaving for Paris tomorrow.”
- Nous nous déplaçons: This phrase is more formal and is used to emphasize the act of movement. It can be translated as “We are moving” or “We are traveling.” An example sentence could be “Nous nous déplaçons en train” meaning “We are traveling by train.”
Informal Ways to Say “We Go” in French
When speaking informally, French speakers often use different phrases to say “we go.” Here are some commonly used informal expressions:
- On y va: This is the most common and casual way to say “we go” among friends and acquaintances. It can be translated as “Let’s go” or “We’re going.” For example, “On y va à la plage demain” translates to “We’re going to the beach tomorrow.”
- On part: Another informal variation is to use the verb “partir” as in “On part faire du shopping” meaning “We’re going shopping.” It adds a sense of informality and spontaneity to the conversation.
- Allons-y: This is a short and straightforward way to say “let’s go” in a friendly manner. It is often used as an invitation to go somewhere together. For example, “Allons-y au restaurant ce soir” translates to “Let’s go to the restaurant tonight.”
Regional Variations
French is spoken in various regions, and just like any other language, it has some regional variations in vocabulary and expressions. Here are a few examples where “we go” may differ slightly:
Dans le Midi: In southern France, people often use “On part” or “On y va” similar to informal expressions discussed earlier. However, they might also use “Nous partons” but with a different pronunciation, sounding more like “Nous partouillons.”
Dans les Antilles: In the French Caribbean islands, such as Martinique or Guadeloupe, locals might use “Nous ka alé” which roughly translates to “We go.” This Creole phrase adds a cultural flair to the language.
Tips for Using “We Go” in French
Here are some additional tips to help you master the usage of “we go” in French:
- Pay attention to verb conjugation: In French, verbs change depending on the subject. Make sure to correctly conjugate the verb “aller” or “partir” according to the pronoun “nous” when using formal expressions.
- Match the level of formality: Adjust your language depending on the situation. Choose formal expressions for professional or unfamiliar settings, and informal ones when speaking with friends or in casual environments.
- Listen and practice: The best way to become comfortable with the various ways to say “we go” in French is through listening and practicing. Watch movies, listen to music, and engage in conversations with native French speakers to improve your skills.
Remember, language learning is a journey, and making mistakes is part of the process. Embrace the opportunity to grow and improve your French-speaking abilities!
Now that you have a comprehensive guide on how to say “we go” in French, go ahead and practice using these phrases in your conversations. Bonne chance!
