toi aussi
In French, 'you as well' can be translated as toi aussi.
This phrase is a polite response used to return a greeting or a wish to another person.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase toi aussi is composed of the stressed pronoun toi (you) and the adverb aussi (also/as well).
Which one should you use?
toi aussi is the informal version used for individuals, whereas vous aussi is the formal or plural version. You can also use vous de même as a polite way to say 'you as well' specifically as a direct response to someone who wishes you well.
Did you know?
- The word aussi is a linguistic hybrid, likely combining Latin roots with a Germanic structure from the Frankish word *allswā, meaning 'in the same way'.
- In French, using toi aussi to a stranger or a superior is considered a significant social faux pas, whereas English 'you too' is generally acceptable in most casual settings.
- If you are responding to a wish like 'Have a nice day', saying only toi aussi can sometimes sound slightly blunt in certain social contexts compared to the more rhythmic pareillement.
Examples in context
- Bonne soirée! – "Merci, vous de même."Have a nice evening! – "Thank you, you as well."
- Si tu vas à la fête, amuse-toi bien! – "Merci, toi aussi!"If you are going to the party, have fun! – "Thanks, you as well!"
- Bonne journée ! Toi aussi !Have a good day! You too!
- Merci, toi aussi.Thanks, you as well.
Example conversation
Chloé and Gabriel are saying goodbye after a coffee date.
- ChloéBonne soirée, Gabriel !Have a good evening, Gabriel!
- GabrielMerci, toi aussi, Chloé.Thanks, you as well, Chloé.
- ChloéÀ bientôt !See you soon!
- GabrielSalut !Bye!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aussi, toi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
