Common French Phrases to Say When Someone Sneezes
1. À tes souhaits / À vos souhaits
The most common response to a sneeze in France is “À tes souhaits” (informal) or “À vos souhaits” (formal or plural). Translated literally, it means “To your wishes.” This phrase is similar to saying “Bless you” in English. The choice between “tes” (your, informal) and “vos” (your, formal/plural) depends on your relationship with the person and the level of formality required.
- À tes souhaits: Use with friends, family, or people your own age.
- À vos souhaits: Use in formal situations, with strangers, or with people older than you.
2. À tes amours / À vos amours
If the person sneezes a second time, it’s traditional to say “À tes amours” (informal) or “À vos amours” (formal). This means “To your loves.” While less common in casual settings, this phrase is still recognized and used, especially if someone sneezes more than once.
3. Qu’est-ce qu’on dit après le troisième éternuement ?
After a third sneeze, there’s a playful tradition to respond with “Et que les tiennes durent toujours !” (May yours last forever!). However, this is rarely used in daily life and is more of a light-hearted custom.
Why Do the French Say “À tes souhaits”?
The tradition of saying “À tes souhaits” dates back centuries and was initially meant to ward off evil spirits or wish good health. While most French people today use it as a polite reflex rather than a superstitious act, it remains an important part of social etiquette. Not acknowledging a sneeze can seem impolite or inattentive in French culture.
Other Useful Phrases Related to Sneezing in French
- Excusez-moi (Excuse me) – What you might say if you’re the one sneezing, especially in formal settings.
- Pardon (Sorry) – Another way to excuse yourself after sneezing.
How to Practice These Expressions
Mastering these responses is a great way to immerse yourself in French culture and sound more like a native speaker. You can practice these phrases with friends, language partners, or through language learning platforms like Talkpal, which provides practical conversation scenarios and feedback. The next time you’re in a French-speaking environment, don’t hesitate to use these expressions—it’s a small gesture that goes a long way in making connections and showing respect.
Conclusion: Embrace French Etiquette in Everyday Life
Understanding what to say when someone sneezes in France is a simple but important step in learning French and embracing the country’s customs. Whether you choose “À tes souhaits” or “À vos souhaits,” your polite response will be appreciated. Keep practicing with authentic situations, and remember that language learning is about connecting with people as much as mastering words and phrases. For more tips on French etiquette and practical language skills, check out the Talkpal AI language learning blog and keep building your confidence in every conversation!
