French Phrase
Oui, tiens, une carte gratuite.
Meaning
A friendly, informal way to confirm something and hand over a free card (e.g., a loyalty card, a map, or a membership card). The speaker says “yes” and then uses *tiens* to indicate that they are giving the item.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings such as cafés, tourist offices, or shops when you are giving a customer a free card or map. It works well when the atmosphere is relaxed; in more formal contexts replace *tiens* with *voilà*.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ouitiensunecartegratuite
Oui
Simple affirmation meaning “yes”. It can be used alone or before a statement.
tiens (imperative)
The informal imperative of *tenir* meaning “here you go” or “take this”. It is used when handing something over.
une (indefinite article)
Feminine singular indefinite article that agrees with the noun *carte*.
carte (noun)
A feminine noun meaning “card”, “map”, or “ticket” depending on context.
gratuite (adjective agreement)
Adjective meaning “free”. It must agree in gender and number with *carte* (feminine singular → *gratuite*).
🗨In Conversation
Oui, tiens, une carte gratuite.
Yes, here you go, a free card.
Merci beaucoup ! C’est très gentil.
Thank you very much! That’s very kind.
✕Common Mistakes
Oui, tiens, une carte gratuit.
The adjective must agree with the feminine noun *carte*; use *gratuite*.
Oui, tiens, une carte gratuite.
Use *tiens* only in informal contexts; in formal speech replace with *voilà* or *Voici*.
↔Alternatives
Oui, voilà, une carte gratuite.
Yes, here is a free card.
Voici une carte gratuite.
Here is a free card.
Voici votre carte gratuite.
Here is your free card.
Cultural Tip
The word *tiens* is informal and conveys a warm, almost conversational tone. In a business or very formal setting, French speakers usually prefer *voilà* or *Voici* to avoid sounding too familiar. Also, French speakers often add a polite “merci” after receiving something, even if it’s free.