petit-ami

You'll often hear petit-ami to talk about a boyfriend in French. It literally translates to "little friend," but in this context, it clearly means boyfriend.

It's a very common and natural way to refer to your male partner. You might also hear "mon copain," which is a bit more informal but also widely used.

Using petit-ami shows you're comfortable with everyday French expressions. You'll definitely want to add this one to your vocabulary.

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Literal meaning of 'petit-ami'

The literal translation of 'petit-ami' is 'little friend'. While this might sound endearing, it's generally understood to mean 'boyfriend' in the context of a romantic relationship.

Pronunciation of 'petit-ami'

Pronounce it as 'puh-tee ah-mee'. Pay attention to the liaison between 'petit' and 'ami', where the 't' at the end of 'petit' is pronounced like a 't' sound and links to the 'a' of 'ami'.

Gender of 'petit-ami'

'Petit-ami' is a masculine noun. If you're referring to a girlfriend, you would use 'petite-amie' (pronounced 'puh-teet ah-mee'). Notice the extra 'e' for the feminine form.

Using 'mon petit-ami'

When referring to 'my boyfriend', you say 'mon petit-ami'. Even though 'amie' is feminine, because 'petit-ami' starts with a vowel sound, you use 'mon' instead of 'ma' to avoid two vowel sounds together.

Common usage of 'petit-ami'

This term is very common among young people and adults. It's a straightforward way to refer to a boyfriend.

Alternative: 'copain'

Another common word for 'boyfriend' is 'copain'. While 'petit-ami' implies a more serious or official relationship, 'copain' can also mean 'friend', so context is key. For a clearer 'boyfriend' meaning, 'petit-ami' is often preferred.

Avoid direct translation of 'girlfriend'

Don't just add 'petite' to 'ami' for 'girlfriend'. While 'petite-amie' works, 'copine' is also very common for 'girlfriend'. Be aware of both options.

Plural form: 'petits-amis'

To say 'boyfriends', you use 'petits-amis'. Both 'petit' and 'ami' take an 's' for the plural. For 'girlfriends', it's 'petites-amies'.

Contextual usage: casual vs. serious

While 'petit-ami' is generally clear, some might use 'mon homme' (my man) for a more serious or long-term partner, though this is more informal. 'Petit-ami' is a good all-around term for a boyfriend.

Sentence example with 'petit-ami'

Voici mon petit-ami, Marc. (Here is my boyfriend, Marc.) This is a very common way to introduce your boyfriend.