French Phrase
On voyage en été.
Meaning
This phrase describes a general habit or a collective plan to travel during the summer months. It uses the pronoun 'on', which is the standard way to say 'we' in informal spoken French.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing vacation habits or seasonal plans with friends, family, or colleagues in a relaxed setting. It is ideal for small talk about travel and holidays.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Onvoyageenété
The pronoun 'On'
In modern spoken French, 'on' is used instead of 'nous' to mean 'we', but it always triggers a singular verb conjugation.
Prepositions with Seasons
Use 'en' for seasons starting with a vowel (en été, en hiver, en automne) and 'au' for spring (au printemps).
🗨In Conversation
Qu'est-ce que vous faites pour les vacances ?
What are you doing for the holidays?
On voyage en été.
We travel in summer.
✕Common Mistakes
On voyagons en été.
Even though 'on' means 'we', it always takes the third-person singular verb form, just like 'il' or 'elle'.
On voyage dans été.
Use the preposition 'en' before seasons starting with a vowel sound, like été, automne, and hiver.
↔Alternatives
Nous voyageons en été.
We travel in summer (formal).
On part en vacances l'été.
We go on vacation in the summer.
Cultural Tip
In France, the 'on' pronoun has almost entirely replaced 'nous' in everyday conversation. Additionally, summer travel is a major cultural event, as many French citizens take several weeks off in July or August, often leading to quieter cities and busier coastal regions.