Guillaume
/ɡi.jom/
The English name William can be translated into French as Guillaume. Wiktionary also lists William.
Meaning: male given name (name)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA |
|---|---|
| Guillaume | /ɡi.jom/ |
| William | /wi.ljam/ |
Guillaume is the traditional French equivalent of the name. While William is also used in French-speaking contexts, it often serves as an imported name for English-speaking individuals or is chosen when a more modern, international feel is desired.
Which one should you use?
Guillaume is the most common and widely accepted translation of William in French. In contrast, William is typically used when referring to people from English-speaking backgrounds or to provide an international nuance.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Guilhem is a regional rendition of William encountered in certain areas, particularly in southern France.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡi.jom/
Did you know?
- While Guillaume is the French form, it was the name of the conqueror who brought the French language to England in 1066.
- The French name Guillaume is actually a combination of two ancient Germanic words meaning 'will' and 'helmet'.
- The regional version Guilhem is specifically tied to the Occitan language spoken in southern France.
Examples in context
- William mourait de rire.William was dying laughing.This sentence shows the use of William.Tatoeba #11607689 by Amastan, translation #11602216 by Amastan
- William a un père riche.William has a wealthy father.Tatoeba #11607762 by Amastan, translation #11602446 by Amastan
- William a refusé d'obéir.William refused to obey.Tatoeba #11607696 by Amastan, translation #11602420 by Amastan
- Bonjour, Guillaume!Hello, Guillaume!
- Salut Will! On se voit plus tard?Hey Will! Shall we meet later?
- 101 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are looking at a group photo.
- EmmaC'est qui, Guillaume ?Who is Guillaume?
- HugoC'est mon cousin.That is my cousin.
- EmmaIl a l'air sympa, Guillaume.Guillaume looks nice.
- HugoOui, il est très gentil.Yes, he is very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “william” translations and entries Guillaume, William, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Guillaume, William, guillaume, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
