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French Phrase

Et ta famille ?

/e ta fa.mij/
Meaning"And your family?"
💡

Meaning

This phrase is a common and polite way to inquire about someone's family, usually after they have asked about yours. It's a conversational turn-taking mechanism, showing reciprocal interest in the other person's life. It literally translates to "And your family?"

🎯

When to use

Use this phrase in informal settings with friends, close acquaintances, or people you address with 'tu'. It's perfect for continuing a conversation after someone has asked about your well-being or your family. It's a friendly and natural way to show you care.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ettafamille?

1

Et

'Et' means 'and'. It's a conjunction used to connect words, phrases, or clauses, and here it smoothly links the question to the preceding conversation.

2

ta

'Ta' is an informal feminine singular possessive adjective, meaning 'your'. It agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies ('famille' is feminine singular).

3

famille

'Famille' means 'family'. It is a feminine singular noun in French. Inquiries about family are common and show politeness.

🗨In Conversation

A

Comment vas-tu ?

How are you?

Ça va bien, merci ! Et ta famille ?

I'm good, thanks! And your family?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Et votre famille ?

    While grammatically correct, using 'votre' (formal 'your') with 'Et ta famille ?' (informal 'your') creates an inconsistent tone. If you're using 'tu' with someone, stick to 'ta'.

  • Ta famille ?

    Omitting 'Et' makes the question sound abrupt and less natural in a conversational flow. The 'Et' connects it smoothly to the previous part of the conversation.

↔Alternatives

  • Comment va ta famille ?

    How is your family doing?

  • Et les tiens ?

    And yours? (referring to family/loved ones in general)

  • Et votre famille ?

    And your family? (formal)

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Cultural Tip

Family is often central in French culture, and inquiring about it is a sign of politeness and genuine interest. Remember the distinction between 'tu' (informal 'you') and 'vous' (formal 'you' or plural 'you'). 'Ta' corresponds to 'tu', so use this phrase with people you're on a first-name basis with. Using 'vous' and 'votre' would be more appropriate in formal contexts or with strangers.