French Phrase
Oui, c'est un mariage en tenue de soirée.
Meaning
The speaker confirms that the event is a wedding and that the required dress code is formal evening attire. In French, 'tenue de soirée' implies a sophisticated, often black‑tie style suitable for night‑time celebrations.
When to use
Use this sentence when you are answering a question about the nature of an event or its dress code, especially after being asked if a ceremony is a wedding and what guests should wear.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oui,c'estunmariageentenuedesoirée.
Oui
A simple affirmative meaning 'yes'. It can stand alone or precede a full sentence.
c'est
Contraction of 'ce' + 'est', used to identify or describe something: 'it is'.
un mariage
Indefinite article 'un' + noun 'mariage' (wedding).
en + noun
The preposition 'en' introduces a circumstance, here indicating the dress code.
tenue de soirée
A set phrase meaning 'evening wear' or 'formal attire for an evening event'.
🗨In Conversation
Est‑ce que c’est un mariage ?
Is it a wedding?
Oui, c’est un mariage en tenue de soirée.
Yes, it’s a wedding in evening attire.
✕Common Mistakes
Oui, c’est un mariage en tenue du soirée.
The preposition should be 'de' (tenue de soirée), not 'du'.
Oui, c’est un mariage en tenue soirée.
The noun 'soirée' needs the preposition 'de' to form the set phrase.
C’est un mariage en tenue de soirée.
Missing the introductory 'Oui,' when directly answering a yes/no question.
↔Alternatives
Oui, c’est un mariage en costume de soirée.
Yes, it’s a wedding in evening costume.
Oui, c’est un mariage où il faut s’habiller en soirée.
Yes, it’s a wedding where you must dress for the evening.
Oui, c’est un mariage avec une tenue de soirée.
Yes, it’s a wedding with evening wear.
Cultural Tip
In France, a 'tenue de soirée' usually means a dark suit and tie for men, and an elegant cocktail dress or evening gown for women. It is less formal than 'tenue de gala' (full black‑tie) but still expects a polished, refined look. Always check the invitation for any specific dress‑code symbols.

