At the A1 level, you should recognize 'filleule' as a member of the extended family network. You will likely learn it alongside words like 'fille' (daughter) and 'fils' (son). At this stage, focus on the fact that 'filleule' is feminine. You should be able to use it with simple possessive adjectives like 'ma filleule' (my goddaughter). Think of it as a special title for a girl in your life who isn't your biological daughter. You don't need to know the complex religious or legal history yet, just that it means 'goddaughter'. It is a useful word for basic introductions during family-themed lessons.
At the A2 level, you begin to understand the social context of the word. You know that a 'filleule' has a 'parrain' (godfather) or a 'marraine' (godmother). You can use 'filleule' in simple sentences about daily life, such as 'Je vais au parc avec ma filleule' (I am going to the park with my goddaughter). You should also be able to form the plural 'filleules' and ensure that adjectives agree with it (e.g., 'ma filleule est petite'). This level also introduces the idea of family celebrations where a 'filleule' might be present, such as a birthday or a holiday meal.
By B1, you can discuss the relationship in more detail. You can explain the role of a godparent in French culture—how they provide advice and are involved in the child's upbringing. You should be able to use the word in the past tense (e.g., 'Elle est devenue ma filleule l'année dernière') and in more complex structures using relative pronouns like 'qui' or 'que' (e.g., 'C'est une filleule que j'aime beaucoup'). You also start to recognize the word in different contexts, such as the 'baptême civil' (civil baptism) and understand that the bond is not always religious.
At the B2 level, you can use 'filleule' to discuss abstract concepts like 'chosen family' or 'mentorship'. You are comfortable using the word in formal and informal registers. You can talk about the moral responsibilities a godparent has toward their 'filleule'. You might encounter the word in news articles or literature where the relationship is used as a plot point. You understand nuances, such as why someone might choose a friend over a sibling to be a godparent, and you can debate the importance of these traditions in modern French society using the term accurately.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the word's etymology and its historical significance in French law and religion. You can use 'filleule' in sophisticated literary analysis or legal discussions. You understand the historical 'spiritual kinship' that 'filleule' once implied and how that has shifted into contemporary social structures. You are also aware of metaphorical uses of the word in professional environments (though rare) and can distinguish it from similar terms like 'protégée' or 'pupille' with precision. Your use of the word is natural, idiomatic, and culturally informed.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 'filleule'. You can use it in highly nuanced ways, perhaps in creative writing or philosophical discourse about the nature of family bonds. You understand its place in regional dialects and historical texts. You can navigate complex discussions about the evolution of the 'parrainage' system in France, from the Catholic Church to the 'République'. You can also use the word to explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in French identity. Your mastery includes the ability to use the word in wordplay, puns, or complex rhetorical structures without hesitation.

filleule 30秒で

  • Filleule is the French word for goddaughter, used for a female child in relation to her godparents (parrain/marraine).
  • It is a feminine noun requiring feminine adjectives and articles (e.g., ma filleule, une filleule gentille).
  • The relationship can be religious (Catholic baptism) or secular (civil baptism at a French town hall).
  • In French culture, the bond with a filleule is often lifelong, involving mentorship, gifts, and emotional support.

The French word filleule is a feminine noun that translates to "goddaughter" in English. It describes the specific relationship between a female child (or adult) and her godparents, known in French as the parrain (godfather) and marraine (godmother). In French culture, this bond often transcends a mere religious title, representing a lifelong commitment of mentorship, support, and affection. While the term originates from religious traditions, particularly Catholicism, it is also used in secular contexts, such as the baptême républicain (civil baptism) performed at a French town hall (mairie). When a woman refers to her filleule, she is highlighting a chosen family connection that is distinct from biological daughterhood but often carries similar emotional weight.

Spiritual Bond
In a religious sense, the filleule is someone the godparent promises to guide in faith and moral development throughout their life.

Ma filleule vient de fêter ses dix ans et je lui ai offert un livre spécial.

The word is composed of the root fille (daughter) and the suffix -eule, which historically functioned as a diminutive or a marker of relationship. It is crucial to distinguish it from filleul, which is the masculine form used for a godson. Because French is a gendered language, you must always use filleule when referring to a female. In modern France, the role of a godparent to their filleule often involves being a "cool aunt or uncle" figure who provides a safe space for the girl to talk about things she might not discuss with her parents. This social role is deeply ingrained in the fabric of French family life, where godparents are expected to remember birthdays, attend significant milestones, and sometimes even take on a guardianship role if the parents are unable to do so.

Social Expectation
Godparents in France are often expected to provide more than just gifts; they are expected to be present in the filleule's psychological and social development.

En tant que marraine, je prends mon rôle auprès de ma filleule très au sérieux.

Historically, the term has evolved from the Latin filiola. In the Middle Ages, the relationship between a godparent and a filleule was considered a "spiritual kinship" so strong that it was sometimes a legal impediment to marriage between the godparent's family and the godchild's family. Today, while those legal barriers have largely vanished, the emotional terminology remains. You will hear the word used frequently during family gatherings, especially during the fêtes de fin d'année (end-of-year holidays) or during summer vacations when families reunite. It is a word filled with warmth and responsibility.

J'ai envoyé une carte de vœux à ma filleule qui habite à Lyon.

Legal Context
While not legally binding in a court of law regarding custody, the title of filleule holds immense moral weight in French succession and family planning.

Elle est la filleule de mon meilleur ami depuis son baptême.

Ma petite filleule adore les histoires de princesses que je lui raconte.

Using the word filleule correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender and its place within the sentence structure. As a feminine noun, it is almost always preceded by feminine articles or possessive adjectives such as la, une, ma, ta, or sa. For example, if you are introducing her to a friend, you might say, "Je vous présente ma filleule." It is important to note that even if the godparent is male (the godfather), the word remains filleule because the word refers to the female child, not the gender of the speaker. This is a common point of confusion for English speakers who are used to gender-neutral terms like "godchild." In French, you must choose between filleule (female) and filleul (male).

Possessive Usage
Ma filleule (my goddaughter), Ta filleule (your goddaughter), Sa filleule (his/her goddaughter).

C'est la filleule de mon oncle, elle est très intelligente.

When describing a filleule, any adjectives used must also agree in gender and number. If you have multiple goddaughters, the plural is filleules. For instance, "Mes filleules sont adorables." In complex sentences, the word often appears in the context of family events. "Nous avons organisé une fête pour la communion de ma filleule." Here, the word acts as the object of the preposition de. You might also see it used in the context of mentorship: "Je conseille souvent ma filleule sur ses études supérieures." This reflects the modern usage where the godparent acts as a guide or advisor.

Plural Forms
Les filleules (the goddaughters) - used when referring to a group of female godchildren.

J'ai deux filleules, et je les gâte beaucoup à Noël.

In formal writing, such as an invitation or a legal document, the term is used precisely to define the relationship. For example, "Mme Martin et sa filleule, Julie..." In casual conversation, the word is often used with diminutive or affectionate modifiers, like ma petite filleule, even if the goddaughter is no longer a child. This adds a layer of endearment to the relationship. You should also be aware of the verb parrainer, which means to sponsor or to act as a godparent, though there is no direct verb form of filleule itself.

Elle est devenue ma filleule il y a cinq ans lors d'une cérémonie civile.

Agreement with Adjectives
Ma filleule est contente (My goddaughter is happy) - note the feminine 'e' on contente.

Est-ce que ta filleule aime dessiner autant que toi ?

Je cherche un cadeau pour l'anniversaire de ma filleule.

The word filleule is frequently heard in French domestic settings, particularly during large family meals which are a staple of French social life. It is common to hear someone say, "Comment va ta filleule ?" (How is your goddaughter doing?) as a way of showing interest in the other person's extended family responsibilities. You will also encounter this word in religious settings, specifically during a baptême (baptism). The priest might refer to the child as the future filleule during the ceremony. In the secular sphere, the parrainage républicain is a popular alternative in many French towns, where the mayor presides over a ceremony and the term filleule is used in the official certificates provided to the family.

Family Gatherings
Sunday lunches are prime times to hear updates about one's filleule.

À Noël, toute la famille se réunit et je vois enfin ma filleule.

In French literature and cinema, the relationship between a godparent and their filleule is a classic trope used to explore themes of mentorship and legacy. You might see it in a film where a character leaves a secret inheritance to his filleule, or in a novel where the godmother provides the protagonist with crucial life advice. Furthermore, in the workplace, although less common, some older mentors might colloquially refer to a young female protégé as their filleule, though this is metaphorical. In the world of charity and NGOs, parrainer une enfant (sponsoring a child) is a common phrase, and the child being sponsored is often referred to as a filleule in the organization's communications with the donor.

Charity Context
NGOs use 'filleule' to describe girls in developing countries who receive educational support from sponsors.

Grâce à cette association, j'aide ma filleule au Sénégal à aller à l'école.

Social media also plays a role in the modern usage of the word. It is very common to see photos captioned with "Ma filleule adorée" or "Fière de ma filleule" (Proud of my goddaughter) when a girl graduates or achieves something significant. In these contexts, the word carries a sense of pride and public acknowledgement of the bond. In the south of France, where family traditions can be particularly strong, the filleule might also have a specific role in local festivals or processions, further cementing the term's presence in the public ear.

Elle a posté une photo avec sa filleule sur Instagram ce matin.

Regional Nuances
In some regions, the filleule is expected to visit her godparents on 'le jour des étrennes' (New Year's Day).

C'est une tradition : ma filleule dîne chez nous tous les premiers dimanches du mois.

La filleule du roi était souvent un personnage important à la cour.

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning French is confusing filleule with fille (daughter). While they share the same root, their meanings are distinct. A fille is a biological or adopted daughter, whereas a filleule is a goddaughter. Saying "C'est ma fille" when you mean "C'est ma filleule" can lead to significant confusion regarding family relationships. Another common mistake is the gender agreement of the word itself. Many learners forget to add the final 'e' in writing, resulting in filleul, which specifically refers to a godson. In spoken French, the difference is subtle but the context usually clarifies the gender.

Fille vs. Filleule
Mistake: Calling your goddaughter 'ma fille'. Correct: 'Ma filleule'.

Attention ! Ne confondez pas votre fille avec votre filleule.

Another nuance involves the use of possessive adjectives. Some learners mistakenly think the possessive adjective must match their own gender. However, in French, the possessive adjective matches the gender of the noun it modifies. So, even if a man is the godfather, he must say ma filleule because filleule is feminine. Saying "mon filleule" is grammatically incorrect. Furthermore, beginners often confuse filleule with petite-fille (granddaughter). While both involve a younger female relative, the nature of the bond is entirely different—one is generational/biological, the other is social/spiritual.

Gender Confusion
Mistake: 'Mon filleule'. Correct: 'Ma filleule'. The noun determines the adjective.

Il a dit « mon filleule » par erreur au lieu de « ma filleule ».

A more advanced mistake involves the pluralization and collective reference. If you have one godson and one goddaughter, you cannot use the feminine plural filleules to refer to both; you must use the masculine plural filleuls (the "masculine overrides" rule in French). Only if all the godchildren are female can you use filleules. Lastly, avoid using filleule to describe a niece (nièce), unless you are actually her godparent as well. While many godparents are also aunts or uncles, the terms are not interchangeable in French social etiquette.

Mes deux filleules sont sœurs, donc c'est plus facile pour les cadeaux.

Niece vs. Goddaughter
In France, people specify the relationship. If you are both an uncle and a godfather, you might choose the term that fits the current context best.

Elle est ma nièce, mais elle est surtout ma filleule préférée.

Je dois écrire le nom de ma filleule correctement sur cette enveloppe.

While filleule is the most precise term for a goddaughter, there are several related words that describe similar social or familial bonds. Understanding these can help you navigate French conversations more naturally. For instance, protégée is often used in professional or artistic contexts to describe a younger woman who is being mentored by an experienced person. While a filleule bond is usually lifelong and family-oriented, a protégée relationship is often career-focused. Another term is pupille, which has a more legal connotation, referring to a ward of the state or a child under the legal protection of a guardian (pupille de la nation).

Filleule vs. Protégée
Filleule is familial/religious; Protégée is professional/mentorship-based.

Elle n'est pas ma filleule, mais je la considère comme ma protégée dans l'entreprise.

If you want to sound more casual, you might simply refer to her as l'enfant de mes amis (my friends' child) or ma petite (my little one), although the latter is very informal and affectionate. In some religious contexts, you might hear enfant de chœur if she participates in church services, but this describes a role rather than a relationship. In the context of a wedding, she might be a demoiselle d'honneur (bridesmaid/flower girl), which is a temporary role, unlike the permanent status of being a filleule. It is also interesting to look at the word commère, which historically meant a godmother (co-mother) but has evolved in modern French to mean a gossip or a busybody.

Filleule vs. Pupille
Pupille is a legal status, often involving the state; Filleule is a social/personal choice.

L'orpheline est devenue la filleule du maire après l'accident.

Comparing filleule to nièce (niece) is also useful. While many people choose their nieces to be their goddaughters, they are not the same. You can have a filleule who is the daughter of a best friend and has no biological relation to you. In fact, in France, choosing a non-family member as a godparent for your child is a common way to expand the child's support network. This makes the term filleule a powerful word for "chosen family." In summary, while there are synonyms for the type of relationship (mentor, guardian), filleule remains the unique and irreplaceable term for this specific French cultural bond.

Ma filleule est comme une deuxième fille pour moi.

Filleule vs. Petite-fille
Petite-fille means granddaughter. Filleule means goddaughter. They are often confused by beginners due to the 'fille' root.

Ma filleule et ma petite-fille ont le même âge, elles jouent souvent ensemble.

Elle a choisi sa meilleure amie pour être la marraine de sa filleule.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

In the Middle Ages, the relationship with a filleule was so significant that it was considered 'spiritual kinship' (parenté spirituelle), and the Church often forbade godparents from marrying into the family of their godchild.

発音ガイド

UK /fi.jœl/
US /fi.jʊl/
In French, stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis falls on the last syllable: fi-YEUL.
韻が合う語
aïeule (grandmother/ancestor) seule (alone) gueule (mouth/face - slang) meule (grindstone/haystack) tilleul (linden tree - though masculine, the ending sound is similar) veule (weak-willed) bayeule (old dialect term) épagneule (female spaniel)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the 'll' like an English 'l' (it should be a 'y' sound).
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' (it is silent).
  • Confusing the 'eu' sound with 'ou' (like soup) or 'u' (like tu).
  • Mixing up the gender and pronouncing it like 'filleul'.
  • Stress on the first syllable.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'fille'. The ending '-eule' is standard for this relationship.

ライティング 3/5

Common mistakes include forgetting the 'e' or the double 'l'.

スピーキング 4/5

The 'eu' sound followed by 'l' can be tricky for English speakers to master perfectly.

リスニング 2/5

Easy to hear, though it sounds very similar to the masculine 'filleul'.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

fille famille père mère ami

次に学ぶ

parrain marraine baptême lien éducation

上級

pupille succession tutelle filiation ascendance

知っておくべき文法

Gender agreement of nouns

Une filleule (fem) vs Un filleul (masc).

Possessive adjectives

MA filleule (always 'ma' because 'filleule' is feminine).

Silent final letters

The 'e' in filleule is silent.

Double consonants

The 'll' in filleule creates a 'y' sound.

Plural formation

Add an 's' for 'filleules'.

レベル別の例文

1

Ma filleule s'appelle Marie.

My goddaughter's name is Marie.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

2

C'est ma filleule.

This is my goddaughter.

Use of 'C'est' for introduction.

3

J'ai une filleule.

I have a goddaughter.

Indefinite article 'une' for feminine nouns.

4

Ma filleule est petite.

My goddaughter is small.

Adjective agreement (petite).

5

Elle est ma filleule.

She is my goddaughter.

Personal pronoun 'Elle'.

6

Voici ma filleule.

Here is my goddaughter.

Use of 'Voici' for presenting.

7

Ma filleule aime le chocolat.

My goddaughter likes chocolate.

Simple present tense verb 'aime'.

8

Ma filleule a cinq ans.

My goddaughter is five years old.

Using 'avoir' for age.

1

Je cherche un cadeau pour ma filleule.

I am looking for a gift for my goddaughter.

Preposition 'pour' followed by the noun.

2

Ma filleule habite à Paris avec ses parents.

My goddaughter lives in Paris with her parents.

Preposition 'à' for cities.

3

Nous allons voir ma filleule ce week-end.

We are going to see my goddaughter this weekend.

Near future tense (aller + infinitive).

4

Ma filleule est très gentille avec tout le monde.

My goddaughter is very kind to everyone.

Adjective agreement (gentille).

5

Est-ce que ta filleule va à l'école ?

Does your goddaughter go to school?

Interrogative form with 'Est-ce que'.

6

J'écris une lettre à ma filleule.

I am writing a letter to my goddaughter.

Indirect object with 'à'.

7

Ma filleule adore jouer au ballon.

My goddaughter loves playing ball.

Verb 'jouer au' for sports.

8

C'est l'anniversaire de ma filleule aujourd'hui.

It is my goddaughter's birthday today.

Possessive 'de' structure.

1

Je suis fier des progrès que ma filleule fait à l'école.

I am proud of the progress my goddaughter is making at school.

Relative clause with 'que'.

2

Ma filleule m'a demandé des conseils pour son avenir.

My goddaughter asked me for advice about her future.

Passé composé with 'demander'.

3

Il est important de passer du temps avec sa filleule.

It is important to spend time with one's goddaughter.

Impersonal 'Il est important de'.

4

Ma filleule a appris à jouer du piano grâce à moi.

My goddaughter learned to play the piano thanks to me.

Expression 'grâce à'.

5

Bien que ma filleule soit loin, nous nous parlons souvent.

Although my goddaughter is far away, we talk often.

Subjunctive mood after 'Bien que'.

6

J'aimerais que ma filleule vienne nous rendre visite cet été.

I would like my goddaughter to come visit us this summer.

Subjunctive after 'aimer que'.

7

Ma filleule est devenue une jeune femme très indépendante.

My goddaughter has become a very independent young woman.

Noun phrase 'jeune femme'.

8

Je me souviens du jour où elle est devenue ma filleule.

I remember the day she became my goddaughter.

Relative pronoun 'où' for time.

1

En tant que marraine, je dois soutenir ma filleule dans ses choix.

As a godmother, I must support my goddaughter in her choices.

Expression 'En tant que'.

2

Ma filleule s'intéresse beaucoup à la protection de l'environnement.

My goddaughter is very interested in environmental protection.

Pronominal verb 's'intéresser à'.

3

J'ai promis aux parents de ma filleule de toujours veiller sur elle.

I promised my goddaughter's parents to always watch over her.

Infinitive construction 'promettre de'.

4

Ma filleule a réussi ses examens, ce qui me rend très heureux.

My goddaughter passed her exams, which makes me very happy.

Relative 'ce qui' referring to a whole clause.

5

Il arrive que ma filleule me confie des secrets qu'elle cache à ses parents.

It happens that my goddaughter confides secrets to me that she hides from her parents.

Subjunctive after 'Il arrive que'.

6

Ma filleule souhaite faire un stage dans mon entreprise l'année prochaine.

My goddaughter wishes to do an internship in my company next year.

Future planning with 'souhaite'.

7

La relation que j'entretiens avec ma filleule est basée sur la confiance.

The relationship I maintain with my goddaughter is based on trust.

Passive voice 'est basée sur'.

8

Ma filleule a un talent incroyable pour la peinture contemporaine.

My goddaughter has an incredible talent for contemporary painting.

Adjective 'incroyable' before the noun.

1

Ma filleule, bien que n'étant pas ma fille biologique, occupe une place centrale dans ma vie.

My goddaughter, although not my biological daughter, occupies a central place in my life.

Present participle 'n'étant pas'.

2

L'héritage moral que je souhaite transmettre à ma filleule est celui de la persévérance.

The moral legacy I wish to transmit to my goddaughter is that of perseverance.

Demonstrative pronoun 'celui'.

3

Il est fascinant de voir comment ma filleule forge sa propre identité au fil des ans.

It is fascinating to see how my goddaughter forges her own identity over the years.

Infinitive 'voir comment'.

4

Ma filleule a su surmonter les obstacles avec une maturité déconcertante.

My goddaughter knew how to overcome obstacles with disconcerting maturity.

Passé composé of 'savoir' meaning 'managed to'.

5

J'ai été désigné comme tuteur légal de ma filleule en cas de malheur.

I was designated as my goddaughter's legal guardian in case of misfortune.

Passive voice 'J'ai été désigné'.

6

Ma filleule s'exprime avec une éloquence qui force l'admiration de ses professeurs.

My goddaughter expresses herself with an eloquence that commands the admiration of her teachers.

Relative clause 'qui force...'.

7

La complicité entre un parrain et sa filleule est souvent indéfectible.

The bond between a godfather and his goddaughter is often unwavering.

Abstract noun 'complicité'.

8

Ma filleule m'a ouvert les yeux sur les réalités de sa génération.

My goddaughter opened my eyes to the realities of her generation.

Idiomatic expression 'ouvrir les yeux'.

1

L'institution du parrainage confère à la filleule un statut hybride, entre parenté et amitié.

The institution of godparenting confers upon the goddaughter a hybrid status, between kinship and friendship.

Formal academic register.

2

Ma filleule incarne à mes yeux la continuité d'une tradition familiale que je chéris.

To me, my goddaughter embodies the continuity of a family tradition that I cherish.

Verb 'incarner' for abstract concepts.

3

Au-delà des liens du sang, ma filleule représente l'élection d'un lien spirituel et affectif.

Beyond blood ties, my goddaughter represents the choice of a spiritual and emotional bond.

Prepositional phrase 'Au-delà de'.

4

Il n'est guère de joie plus pure que celle de voir sa filleule s'épanouir dans sa passion.

There is hardly any joy purer than that of seeing one's goddaughter blossom in her passion.

Negative 'ne... guère' and 'celle de'.

5

La filleule, dans la littérature classique, sert souvent de pivot aux intrigues successorales.

The goddaughter, in classical literature, often serves as a pivot for inheritance plots.

Apposition 'dans la littérature classique'.

6

Ma filleule a hérité de ma bibliothèque, un geste symbolisant notre communion intellectuelle.

My goddaughter inherited my library, a gesture symbolizing our intellectual communion.

Present participle 'symbolisant'.

7

Nonobstant les aléas de la vie, je resterai le rempart indéfectible de ma filleule.

Notwithstanding life's uncertainties, I will remain my goddaughter's unwavering bulwark.

Formal 'Nonobstant'.

8

Le lien qui m'unit à ma filleule transcende les simples obligations rituelles pour devenir une quête de sens partagée.

The bond that unites me to my goddaughter transcends simple ritual obligations to become a shared quest for meaning.

Complex relative clause and metaphor.

よく使う組み合わせ

ma chère filleule
devenir la filleule de
choisir une filleule
gâter sa filleule
la future filleule
présenter sa filleule
veiller sur sa filleule
une petite filleule
la communion de sa filleule
conseiller sa filleule

よく使うフレーズ

C'est ma filleule.

— This is my goddaughter. Used for introductions.

Je vous présente Sophie ; c'est ma filleule.

Ma filleule de cœur.

— My goddaughter by heart. Used for a girl one considers a goddaughter even without a formal ceremony.

Même sans baptême, elle est ma filleule de cœur.

Comment va ta filleule ?

— How is your goddaughter doing? A common social inquiry.

On ne l'a pas vue depuis longtemps. Comment va ta filleule ?

C'est pour ma filleule.

— It is for my goddaughter. Often said when buying a gift.

Je prends cette poupée, c'est pour ma filleule.

Ma filleule a bien grandi.

— My goddaughter has grown up a lot.

Le temps passe vite, ma filleule a bien grandi !

Je suis sa marraine/son parrain.

— I am her godmother/godfather. Clarifies the relationship.

Elle est ma filleule, je suis sa marraine.

Ma filleule adore ça.

— My goddaughter loves that.

Achète des bonbons, ma filleule adore ça.

Fier de ma filleule.

— Proud of my goddaughter.

Elle a eu son bac ! Je suis tellement fier de ma filleule.

Ma filleule est en vacances.

— My goddaughter is on vacation.

On ne peut pas se voir, ma filleule est en vacances chez ses grands-parents.

C'est le cadeau de ma filleule.

— This is my goddaughter's gift.

Ne touche pas à ça, c'est le cadeau de ma filleule.

よく混同される語

filleule vs fille

Means daughter. A filleule is a goddaughter.

filleule vs petite-fille

Means granddaughter. A filleule is a goddaughter.

filleule vs filleul

The masculine form meaning godson.

慣用句と表現

"Être la filleule de la chance"

— To be the goddaughter of luck (metaphorical). To be very lucky or favored by fate.

Elle réussit tout ce qu'elle entreprend ; on dirait qu'elle est la filleule de la chance.

literary
"Traiter comme sa propre filleule"

— To treat someone like one's own goddaughter. To show extreme care and special attention.

Elle s'occupe de cette stagiaire comme sa propre filleule.

neutral
"Une filleule en or"

— A goddaughter made of gold. A perfect, wonderful goddaughter.

Elle m'aide toujours, c'est vraiment une filleule en or.

informal
"Le parrainage du cœur"

— Sponsorship of the heart. A deep bond similar to a godparent/goddaughter relationship without formal ties.

Leur relation relève du parrainage du cœur.

neutral
"Filleule de la République"

— Goddaughter of the Republic. Refers to a child who had a civil baptism at the town hall.

Elle est une filleule de la République depuis son baptême civil.

formal
"La filleule du destin"

— The goddaughter of destiny. Someone whose life seems guided by a higher purpose.

Elle est devenue une grande artiste, la filleule du destin.

literary
"Gâter comme une filleule"

— To spoil like a goddaughter. To give many gifts and much affection.

Elle gâte ses élèves comme des filleules.

informal
"Chercher sa filleule"

— To look for one's goddaughter. Can metaphorically mean searching for a successor or protégé.

Le vieux peintre cherchait sa filleule artistique.

literary
"Une filleule bien née"

— A well-born goddaughter. Someone with good manners and upbringing.

C'est une filleule bien née, toujours polie.

formal
"La filleule préférée"

— The favorite goddaughter.

Ne le dis pas aux autres, mais elle est ma filleule préférée.

informal

間違えやすい

filleule vs fille

Shared root.

Fille is biological/legal daughter; filleule is a spiritual/social bond.

Ma fille a 10 ans, mais ma filleule en a 12.

filleule vs petite-fille

Both refer to a younger female.

Petite-fille is your child's daughter; filleule is your friend's or relative's daughter you sponsor.

Ma petite-fille m'appelle Papy, ma filleule m'appelle Parrain.

filleule vs filleul

Masculine vs Feminine.

Filleul is a boy; filleule is a girl.

Jean est mon filleul, Marie est ma filleule.

filleule vs nièce

Often the same person.

Nièce is a kinship term (brother/sister's daughter); filleule is a chosen role.

Elle est ma nièce par le sang et ma filleule par choix.

filleule vs pupille

Guardian relationship.

Pupille is a legal ward; filleule is a social/religious goddaughter.

L'État s'occupe de la pupille, le parrain s'occupe de la filleule.

文型パターン

A1

C'est ma [noun].

C'est ma filleule.

A2

Je vais voir ma [noun].

Je vais voir ma filleule.

B1

J'aime passer du temps avec ma [noun].

J'aime passer du temps avec ma filleule.

B2

En tant que [role], je soutiens ma [noun].

En tant que marraine, je soutiens ma filleule.

C1

Bien que ma [noun] soit [adj], elle [verb].

Bien que ma filleule soit jeune, elle comprend tout.

C2

Le lien qui m'unit à ma [noun] est [adj].

Le lien qui m'unit à ma filleule est indéfectible.

A2

C'est l'anniversaire de ma [noun].

C'est l'anniversaire de ma filleule.

B1

Ma [noun] a appris à [verb].

Ma filleule a appris à nager.

語族

名詞

filleul (godson)
fille (daughter/girl)
fillette (little girl)
filiation (lineage)

動詞

filier (to string - rare)
parrainer (to sponsor/be a godparent)

形容詞

filial (relating to a son or daughter)

関連

parrain
marraine
baptême
parenté
famille

使い方

frequency

Common in family and social contexts.

よくある間違い
  • Mon filleule Ma filleule

    The word 'filleule' is feminine, so the possessive adjective must be 'ma', regardless of the speaker's gender.

  • Ma fille Ma filleule

    Using 'fille' implies a biological daughter. Use 'filleule' for a goddaughter.

  • Filleul (for a girl) Filleule

    The spelling 'filleul' is strictly for a male godchild. You must add the 'e' for a female.

  • Pronouncing the 'L' in 'fille' Pronouncing it like a 'Y'

    The 'll' in 'filleule' is a palatal semi-vowel, similar to the 'y' in 'yellow'.

  • Using 'filleule' for a niece Nièce (unless she is also your goddaughter)

    While often the same person, 'filleule' describes the social/religious bond, not the biological one.

ヒント

Check the 'e'

Always add the 'e' at the end of 'filleule' when writing about a girl. It's a common spelling error for learners.

Civil Baptism

Don't be surprised if a non-religious French family asks you to be a parrain for their 'filleule' at the mairie. It's a very common tradition.

Birthdays Matter

In France, it is socially expected that you remember your 'filleule's' birthday and send a gift or a card.

The 'LL' Sound

Remember that 'll' in 'filleule' sounds like a 'y' (as in 'yes'), not like an 'l' (as in 'leaf').

Diminutives

Using 'ma petite filleule' is a very common and sweet way to refer to her, regardless of her actual age.

Related Terms

Learn 'marraine' (godmother) and 'parrain' (godfather) at the same time to complete the relationship set.

Not a Daughter

Be careful not to say 'ma fille' if you mean 'ma filleule'. It changes the family tree significantly!

Possessive Agreement

Men often make the mistake of saying 'mon filleule'. Practice saying 'ma filleule' until it feels natural.

Articles are Key

If you can't hear the difference between 'filleul' and 'filleule', listen for 'le/un' vs 'la/une' before the word.

Latin Roots

Remembering 'filiola' (little daughter) can help you remember the meaning of 'filleule'.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a 'fille' (girl) who is 'seule' (alone) until she gets a godmother to guide her. Fille + eule = Filleule.

視覚的連想

Imagine a young girl (fille) wearing a golden crown given by her godmother. The 'eule' ending sounds like 'jewel' (slightly).

Word Web

fille marraine parrain baptême cadeau famille lien amour

チャレンジ

Try to write three sentences describing what you would buy for your 'filleule' if she were visiting Paris for the first time.

語源

The word comes from the Old French 'fillole', derived from the Vulgar Latin 'filiola', which is a diminutive of 'filia' (daughter).

元の意味: Little daughter or dear daughter.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > French.

文化的な背景

While 'filleule' is a warm term, always respect if a family prefers secular terms like 'référent' or 'mentor' if they are not comfortable with the religious overtones.

In the UK/US, 'goddaughter' is often a more casual title, sometimes only used on cards. In France, it implies a more active, ongoing social role.

The relationship between godparents and godchildren is a recurring theme in the 'Harry Potter' French translation (though Harry is a 'filleul'). Classic French fairy tales (like Perrault's Cendrillon) feature the 'fée marraine' and her 'filleule'. Victor Hugo's works often explore the bonds of chosen family similar to the 'filleule' relationship.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Family Dinners

  • Comment va ta filleule ?
  • Ma filleule a grandi.
  • Elle ressemble à sa marraine.
  • C'est ma filleule.

Religious Ceremonies

  • Le baptême de ma filleule.
  • Je suis le parrain de cette filleule.
  • Une bénédiction pour ma filleule.
  • Le rôle de la filleule.

Gift Giving

  • C'est pour ma filleule.
  • Un cadeau d'anniversaire pour ma filleule.
  • Ma filleule adore les livres.
  • Je gâte ma filleule.

Mentorship

  • Je conseille ma filleule.
  • Ma filleule cherche un stage.
  • Elle est ma filleule de cœur.
  • Aider sa filleule.

Holidays

  • Noël avec ma filleule.
  • Les étrennes de ma filleule.
  • Ma filleule nous rend visite.
  • Vacances avec ma filleule.

会話のきっかけ

"As-tu une filleule ou un filleul ?"

"Quel genre de cadeaux offres-tu à ta filleule pour son anniversaire ?"

"Est-ce que tu vois souvent ta filleule ?"

"Quel est le rôle d'un parrain envers sa filleule selon toi ?"

"Est-ce que ta filleule te ressemble un peu ?"

日記のテーマ

Décrivez votre relation avec votre filleule (ou une personne que vous considérez comme telle).

Quels conseils aimeriez-vous donner à une jeune filleule aujourd'hui ?

Racontez le jour où vous êtes devenu(e) parrain ou marraine d'une filleule.

Pourquoi la tradition de la filleule est-elle encore importante en France ?

Imaginez une lettre à votre filleule pour ses 18 ans.

よくある質問

10 問

No, in France, many people use 'filleule' in a secular context, such as a civil baptism at the town hall. It represents a moral commitment rather than a religious one for many modern families.

Yes, you can be the godparent to as many girls as you wish. Each one would be referred to as 'ma filleule'.

No, you must say 'ma filleule'. In French, the possessive adjective (ma) agrees with the noun (filleule), which is feminine, not with the person speaking.

The only difference is gender. 'Filleul' is for a boy (godson) and 'filleule' is for a girl (goddaughter). They are pronounced almost identically, but the spelling differs.

It sounds like the 'u' in 'burn' or 'i' in 'bird', followed by a soft 'l'. The lips should be rounded. It does NOT sound like 'pool'.

A religious baptism has no legal value. A civil baptism (parrainage républicain) is a moral commitment and does not create a legal link like adoption, though it is often recorded at the town hall.

Traditional gifts include a silver cup, a 'gourmette' (bracelet with a name), or 'dragées' (sugar-coated almonds). Modern godparents often give books, toys, or money.

Yes, once the relationship is established, she is your 'filleule' for life, even when she becomes an adult.

Yes, it is used in Quebec and other French-speaking regions with the same meaning, though religious traditions may vary.

You must use the masculine plural: 'mes filleuls'. The masculine form is used for mixed groups in French grammar.

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Translate: 'My goddaughter is very intelligent.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a sentence using 'filleule' and 'cadeau'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe your 'filleule' in three adjectives.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'I am the godmother of Sophie.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain the role of a godparent in one sentence.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'We are going to the baptism of my goddaughter.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a short birthday message to a 'filleule'.

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writing

Use 'filleule' in a sentence with the future tense.

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writing

Translate: 'She is my goddaughter of the heart.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain the difference between 'fille' and 'filleule'.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'My goddaughter has succeeded in her exams.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a formal sentence introducing your goddaughter.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'The bond between a godparent and a goddaughter is unbreakable.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Discuss the 'baptême civil' in two sentences.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Notwithstanding the distance, she remains my goddaughter.'

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writing

Write a metaphorical sentence about 'la filleule de la chance'.

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writing

Describe the history of 'filleule' in French law.

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writing

Translate: 'I wish to transmit my values to my goddaughter.'

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writing

Use 'filleule' in a sentence with the subjunctive mood.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'My goddaughter lives in Paris.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Introduce your goddaughter to a friend in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I am going to buy a dress for my goddaughter.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask someone if they have a goddaughter.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a story about a time you spent with your goddaughter.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain why you chose to be a godmother/godfather.

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speaking

Describe the personality of your goddaughter.

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speaking

Discuss the importance of the godparent-godchild bond.

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speaking

Say: 'My goddaughter is my favorite person in the world.'

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speaking

Talk about what you would like your goddaughter to achieve.

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speaking

Explain the concept of 'baptême civil' to a foreigner.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a tradition you share with your goddaughter.

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speaking

Say: 'I am proud of my goddaughter's graduation.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask: 'How old is your goddaughter now?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell your goddaughter that you will always be there for her.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss if the role of godparents is changing in France.

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speaking

Say: 'She is my only goddaughter.'

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speaking

Propose a toast to your goddaughter.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a photo of your goddaughter.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain how you help your goddaughter with her homework.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'My goddaughter has a beautiful name.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ma filleule est là.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'C'est pour ma filleule.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Où est ta filleule ?'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Sa filleule est très grande.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'J'aime ma filleule.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Le baptême de ma filleule.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Ma filleule a dix ans.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Voici ma petite filleule.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Ma filleule est en vacances.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Elle est ma filleule de cœur.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Je suis fier de ma filleule.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'C'est le cadeau de ma filleule.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ma filleule veut être médecin.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ma filleule habite à l'étranger.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'J'écris à ma filleule.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
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/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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