French Phrase
On est le 25 décembre.
Meaning
This is the most common way to state the date in conversational French. It literally translates to 'one is the 25th of December' or 'we are the 25th of December,' but it is used where English speakers would say 'It is' for a date.
When to use
Use this phrase in everyday conversation when someone asks for the date or when you are noting the day. It is more natural and less formal than using 'Nous sommes'.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Onestle25décembre
On est
The pronoun 'on' combined with 'être' (to be) is the default way to express 'it is' or 'we are' when referring to the date.
Definite Article
Always use 'le' before the date number. Even if the month changes, the article remains 'le'.
🗨In Conversation
Quelle est la date aujourd'hui ?
What is the date today?
On est le 25 décembre. Joyeux Noël !
It is December 25th. Merry Christmas!
✕Common Mistakes
On est 25 décembre.
In French, you must always include the definite article 'le' before the number of the day.
On est le 25 de décembre.
Unlike English 'of December', French does not use 'de' between the number and the month.
↔Alternatives
Nous sommes le 25 décembre.
We are the 25th of December (Formal).
C'est le 25 décembre.
It's December 25th.
Cultural Tip
In France, December 25th is a public holiday dedicated to family gatherings and a long festive meal. While 'On' can mean 'we', using 'On est' for the date is the standard way to speak in almost all social situations in modern France.