French Phrase
Non, je prends mon temps.
Meaning
This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker is not in a hurry and wishes to proceed at a relaxed or deliberate pace. It literally translates to 'I take my time' and reflects a conscious choice to enjoy an activity without pressure.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks if you are rushed, offers to help you finish faster, or when you are browsing in a shop and want to be left alone to look around.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Non,jeprendsmontemps
Prendre (prends)
The verb 'prendre' means 'to take'. Here it is conjugated in the present tense for the first person singular 'je'.
Possessive Adjective (mon)
'Mon' is the masculine singular possessive adjective used to agree with the masculine noun 'temps'.
🗨In Conversation
Tu es pressé ? On peut y aller si tu veux.
Are you in a hurry? We can go if you want.
Non, je prends mon temps.
No, I am taking my time.
✕Common Mistakes
Non, je prends mon heure.
In French, the idiom specifically uses 'temps' (time) rather than 'heure' (hour) to express taking one's time.
Non, je fais mon temps.
The verb 'prendre' (to take) must be used; using 'faire' (to do/make) changes the meaning or makes the sentence incorrect.
↔Alternatives
Je ne suis pas pressé.
I am not in a hurry.
Je flâne un peu.
I am strolling/lingering a bit.
À mon rythme.
At my own pace.
Cultural Tip
In French culture, especially regarding dining or 'la flânerie' (strolling), taking one's time is often seen as a virtue. It suggests an appreciation for the quality of the experience rather than just the completion of a task.