French Phrase
Prends soin de toi.
Meaning
Literally ‘Take care of yourself’, this phrase is a warm, informal way to wish someone well. It can be used when someone is ill, stressed, or simply as a friendly goodbye, conveying genuine concern for the other person’s wellbeing.
When to use
Use it in casual conversations with friends, family, or peers—especially after they’ve mentioned feeling unwell, after a tough day, or when you’re parting ways. In formal or plural contexts switch to ‘Prenez soin de vous.’
✦Grammar Breakdown
Prendssoindetoi
Prends (imperative)
‘Prends’ is the second‑person singular imperative of the verb *prendre* (to take). In the affirmative imperative, the final ‘s’ of *prends* is kept because the verb is followed by a vowel sound.
soin (noun)
‘Soin’ means ‘care’ or ‘attention’. In this expression it functions as a noun that receives the verb *prendre*.
de (preposition)
The preposition *de* links the noun *soin* with the pronoun that follows, indicating what the care is directed toward.
toi (reflexive pronoun)
‘Toi’ is the stressed second‑person singular pronoun used after prepositions. It refers back to the person being addressed.
🗨In Conversation
Prends soin de toi.
Take care of yourself.
Merci, toi aussi !
Thanks, you too!
✕Common Mistakes
Prends soin à toi.
The preposition *de* is required after *soin*; *à* changes the meaning and is ungrammatical here.
Prends soin de vous.
When speaking to more than one person or in a formal context, use the plural imperative *Prenez*.
↔Alternatives
Prends bien soin de toi.
Take good care of yourself.
Fais attention à toi.
Watch out for yourself.
Prenez soin de vous.
Take care of yourselves / Take care of yourself (formal).
Prends soin de vous-même.
Take care of yourself.
Cultural Tip
‘Prends soin de toi’ is informal and intimate; it’s perfect for friends and family. In a professional setting or when speaking to strangers, opt for the plural/formal ‘Prenez soin de vous.’ The phrase also appears in French songs and literature as a gentle reminder of self‑care, reflecting the French value of *bien‑être* (well‑being).