French Phrase
Je passe du temps avec ma famille.
Meaning
This phrase describes the act of dedicating time to be with one's family members. It uses the verb 'passer' to indicate the passage of time in a specific company or activity. It is a foundational sentence for discussing personal life and routines.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks about your hobbies, weekend plans, or how you relax. It is suitable for both informal chats with friends and professional settings when discussing work-life balance.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jepassedutempsavecmafamille
Passer
The verb 'passer' is the standard way to express spending time in French.
Du temps
'Du' is a partitive article used here because 'time' is an uncountable concept in this context.
Ma famille
'Ma' is the feminine possessive adjective used because 'famille' is a feminine noun.
🗨In Conversation
Qu'est-ce que tu fais ce week-end ?
What are you doing this weekend?
Je passe du temps avec ma famille.
I am spending time with my family.
✕Common Mistakes
Je dépense du temps avec ma famille.
In French, 'dépenser' is only used for spending money, whereas 'passer' is used for spending time.
Je passe le temps avec ma famille.
Using 'le temps' often implies 'killing time' or passing the time out of boredom; 'du temps' is better for quality time.
↔Alternatives
Je reste avec ma famille.
I stay with my family.
Je profite de ma famille.
I enjoy time with my family.
Cultural Tip
Family gatherings in France, especially Sunday lunches, are a significant cultural staple and can last for many hours. When you say you are spending time with family, it often implies sharing a meal or engaging in a long conversation.