French Phrase
J'ai 25 ans.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to 'I have 25 years.' In French, age is expressed using the verb 'avoir' (to have) rather than 'être' (to be), which is a fundamental difference from English grammar.
When to use
Use this phrase whenever you need to state your age in a conversation, whether it is a casual meeting, a job interview, or filling out official documents.
✦Grammar Breakdown
J'ai25ans
Elision (J')
The subject pronoun 'Je' drops the 'e' and adds an apostrophe before the vowel in 'ai' for smoother flow.
Verb Avoir (ai)
The verb 'avoir' is used for age. 'Ai' is the first-person singular present form.
Noun (ans)
The word 'ans' means years and is mandatory when stating age in French.
🗨In Conversation
Quel âge as-tu ?
How old are you?
J'ai 25 ans.
I am 25 years old.
✕Common Mistakes
Je suis 25 ans.
In French, you must use the verb 'avoir' (to have) to express age, not 'être' (to be).
J'ai 25.
You cannot omit the word 'ans' (years) in French like you can in English; it must always be included.
↔Alternatives
J'ai vingt-cinq ans.
I am twenty-five years old (written out).
Je vais sur mes 26 ans.
I am turning 26 (lit: I am going on 26 years).
Cultural Tip
While it is common to ask age among young people in France, it can be considered impolite to ask an older person or someone in a formal professional setting. Additionally, 'ans' is always plural for any age above one.