Do the French Say Holiday or Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a trip to France and wondering what the locals call their time off from work? Do they say holiday or vacation? The answer is both, but it depends on the context.

In French, the word for holiday is “vacances,” which is also used to refer to school breaks. However, when it comes to taking time off from work, the French use the word “congé” or “les congés” (plural).

If you’re asking someone about their upcoming time off from work, you could say, “As-tu des vacances prévues ?” (Do you have any vacations planned?)

or “As-tu pris des congés ?” (Have you taken any days off?)

When it comes to official documents and forms, you’ll see the word “congés payés,” which refers specifically to paid vacation days. French workers are entitled to a minimum of five weeks of paid vacation per year.

So why do we sometimes hear French people use the word “holiday”? It’s because English has had a significant influence on the French language in recent years.

Many young people in France have been exposed to English through music, movies, and social media. As a result, they might use English words interchangeably with French ones.

Overall, whether you say holiday or vacation in France depends on the context and who you’re talking to. But if you stick with “congé” and “vacances,” you’ll sound like a true Francophone!

Here’s a summary of what we’ve covered:

French Words for Holiday and Vacation

  • “Vacances” – used for school breaks and general time off
  • “Congé” – used specifically for taking time off from work

Using Holiday and Vacation in Conversation

  • “As-tu des vacances prévues ?” – Do you have any vacations planned?
  • “As-tu pris des congés ?” – Have you taken any days off?

Paid Vacation in France

  • “Congés payés” – paid vacation days
  • French workers are entitled to a minimum of five weeks of paid vacation per year.

English Influence on French Language

  • Younger generations in France may use English words interchangeably with French ones, including “holiday.”

Remember, whether you say holiday or vacation in France, the most important thing is to enjoy your time off!