youpi
/ju.pi/
The English phrase 'yippee' can be translated into French as youpi.
youpi is a common and versatile informal way to express excitement or joy in French. Another option for adding a playful and energetic tone in informal contexts is hourra.
Meaning: ''used to express excitement or joy (intj)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, the term Youppi is used as a playful exclamation of joy.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables and is pronounced /ju.pi/.
Did you know?
- In France, youpi is often viewed as a childish expression, so adults frequently use it ironically to mimic a child's enthusiasm when they are actually feeling sarcastic or reluctant.
- In Quebec, Youppi! is not just an exclamation of joy but is also the name of a famous, beloved professional ice hockey mascot.
- While youpi expresses joy, the related exclamation hourra is a phonetic loanword from the English 'hurrah' and is more commonly associated with cheering for a sports team or a military victory than with personal excitement.
Examples in context
- Youpi, j'ai gagné !Yippee, I won!This sentence shows how to use youpi to express winning.Tatoeba #12767121 by sacredceltic, translation #12886301 by rul
- Youpi, c'est bientôt les vacances !Yippee, vacation is almost here!
- Youpi, on va au cinéma !Yippee, we're going to the cinema!
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are talking about a movie ticket.
- NathanRegarde, j'ai deux places pour le film.Look, I have two tickets for the movie.
- ChloéYoupi ! Merci beaucoup, Nathan !Yippee! Thank you so much, Nathan!
- NathanOn y va tout de suite ?Shall we go right now?
- ChloéOui, je suis prête !Yes, I am ready!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yippee” translations and entries youpi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
