French Phrase
On se retrouve à 18h.
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to suggest or confirm a meeting time with friends or colleagues. It uses the reflexive verb 'se retrouver' to indicate a mutual meeting, and the use of 'on' makes it sound natural and informal.
When to use
Use this when finalizing plans with someone you know well, such as meeting for a coffee or gathering before an event. It is the standard way to set a specific appointment time in a casual setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Onse retrouveà18h
The pronoun 'On'
In spoken French, 'on' is almost always used instead of 'nous' to mean 'we', following the same conjugation as 'il' or 'elle'.
Reflexive Verbs
'Se retrouver' is a reflexive verb; the 'se' indicates that the subjects are performing the action on or with each other.
🗨In Conversation
Tu es libre pour un café ce soir ?
Are you free for a coffee tonight?
Oui, bonne idée ! On se retrouve à 18h.
Yes, good idea! We'll meet at 6 PM.
✕Common Mistakes
On retrouve à 18h.
You must use the reflexive pronoun 'se' because the action of meeting is reciprocal.
On se rencontre à 18h.
'Rencontrer' is typically used for meeting someone for the first time, whereas 'se retrouver' is for meeting up as planned.
↔Alternatives
On se voit à 18h.
We'll see each other at 6 PM.
Rendez-vous à 18h.
Meeting at 6 PM.
Cultural Tip
In France, the 24-hour clock (l'heure officielle) is the standard for appointments and schedules. While 'six heures' is used in casual conversation, saying 'dix-huit heures' is very common and prevents any confusion between morning and evening.