How to say cat in French? What’s the word for a kitten in French? Learn more about the basic terminologies of our favorite fur pet here.
The French word for cat
The French term for cat has two words.
- Le chat – male cat (say sha)
- La chatte – female cat (say shat)
When using “chat” in a sentence, keep in mind that adjectives in French must agree in gender and number with the noun they are modifying. For example, to say “the black cat,” you would say “le chat noir” (noir is the masculine form of the adjective “black”).
“Les chats noirs” would be used to refer to a group of black cats. In addition to “chat,” there are a few other terms in French relating to cats. Here are a couple of such examples:
- “minou” is a cat slang term, akin to “kitty” in English.
- The term “félin” refers to any feline, including cats and other members of the cat family such as lions and tigers.
- Another slang term for a cat is “matou,” which is typically used to refer to a male cat.
- It’s also worth noting that the French language has several dialects, and different words are used to refer to cats in different locations. In Quebec, for example, the term “chat” is frequently replaced by “matou”. In some parts of France, the word “minou” may be used more frequently.
Now let’s look at some basic phrases that use “chat” in French
- “J’ai un chat” (I have a cat)
- “Je cherche un chat” (I am looking for a cat)
- “Mon chat est roux” (My cat is ginger)
- “J’aime les chats” (I like cats)
It’s also worth noting that French people have a special bond with their pets, particularly cats. They are treated as family members and are frequently spoiled. Finally, the French term for “cat” is “chat,” which is a masculine noun.
Remember that adjective must agree in gender and number with the noun they are modifying in French. French has several dialects, and different words are used to refer to cats in different places. In addition, French people have a special bond with their pets, particularly cats, and consider them family members.
French proverbs related to cats
Here are a few French proverbs about cats or that mention them in some way:
- “Il faut laisser faire les chats” translates to “One must let cats do as they please,” and is typically used to warn someone not to interfere in a situation that does not affect them.
- “Il y a plus de chats que de souris dans la ville” – This phrase means “There are more cats than mice in the city,” and it is used to emphasize that there are more options or possibilities than one might imagine.
- “Le chat qui se lave, se regarde” – This phrase is used to describe someone conceited or preoccupied with their appearance.
- “Le chat qui dort, attrape la souris” – This phrase means “The cat that sleeps catches the mouse,” and it is used to tell someone to be patient and wait for a chance.
- “Le chat qui a tué la souris, tient le morceau” – This phrase means that someone who has accomplished something should enjoy the merits or benefits of their success.
It’s worth mentioning that some of these proverbs may be regional and may not be known in all French-speaking nations. It’s also worth noting that proverbs are frequently figurative, and their meaning may not be what it appears to be.
Are you a cat or a dog person
As you can see, understanding how to express “cat” in French can help you comprehend many common proverbs. Furthermore, kittens are one of the most popular topics on the internet, and there are many pages and meme groups about cats on social media. You can now join them as well.
Have the pleasure of reading the next French memes about the grumpy cat or the “chat grincheux”. But don’t forget to return to learn new French terms!