French Phrase
Il y a des promos ?
Meaning
Literally, “Are there any promos?” It is a casual way to ask whether a shop, website, or event currently offers any discounts or special offers.
When to use
Use this phrase when you’re browsing a store, checking a website, or chatting with friends about possible sales. It’s perfectly fine in informal contexts, but in a formal setting you might choose a more polished version.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ilyadespromos?
Il y a
The impersonal construction "il y a" means "there is/are" and is used to state the existence of something.
des
The plural indefinite article "des" is used before a plural noun when you refer to an unspecified quantity.
promos
"promos" is the colloquial short form of "promotions"; it is common in spoken French and informal writing.
Question intonation
In spoken French, a rising intonation at the end of the sentence signals a question; written French adds a space before the question mark.
🗨In Conversation
Il y a des promos ?
Are there any promotions?
Oui, il y a 20 % de réduction sur les jeans aujourd’hui.
Yes, there’s a 20 % discount on jeans today.
✕Common Mistakes
Il y a des promo ?
The noun is plural here, so you need the plural article "des" and the plural form "promos".
Il y a des promos?
In French typography a space is required before the question mark.
Il y a des promotions?
While grammatically correct, using the informal "promos" matches the casual tone of the conversation.
↔Alternatives
Y a‑t‑il des promotions ?
Are there any promotions?
Est‑ce qu’il y a des promos ?
Is there any promotion?
On a des promos ?
Do we have any promos?
Cultural Tip
In France, the official seasonal sales are called "les soldes" and are regulated by law. Outside of those periods, retailers use "promotions" or the slang "promos" to attract customers with limited‑time discounts. While "promos" is widely understood, written advertisements often prefer the full word "promotions" for a more professional tone.