In 15 Seconds
- Discussing or remembering people who have passed away.
- Commonly used during family gatherings and historical discussions.
- A respectful way to keep memories of loved ones alive.
Meaning
This phrase means to talk about people who have passed away. It is often used when sharing memories or honoring ancestors during family gatherings.
Key Examples
3 of 6At a family dinner
Nous aimons parler des morts pour ne pas les oublier.
We like to talk about the dead so we don't forget them.
Looking at old photos
C'est le moment idéal pour parler des morts de la famille.
It's the perfect time to talk about the family's deceased.
Explaining a tradition to a friend
Pendant la Toussaint, on a l'habitude de parler des morts.
During All Saints' Day, we usually talk about the dead.
Cultural Background
The tradition of 'La Toussaint' is the primary cultural anchor. It's a time for 'recueillement' (contemplation) and family stories. In Quebec, there is a strong tradition of 'conteurs' (storytellers) who often include legends about the dead in their repertoire, making 'parler des morts' a form of folk art. In Haitian culture, 'parler des morts' is deeply connected to Voodoo traditions where the 'Gede' (spirits of the dead) are celebrated with humor and loud celebrations in November. In many West African cultures, the 'ancestors' are considered still present. 'Parler des morts' is not just about the past, but about consulting the wisdom of those who still watch over the family.
Don't be afraid of the word 'mort'
In English, 'dead' can feel blunt, but in French, 'les morts' is a standard, respectful way to refer to ancestors.
Watch your prepositions
Always use 'de' (parler DE). Never say 'parler sur' or 'parler à' unless you mean something very different.
In 15 Seconds
- Discussing or remembering people who have passed away.
- Commonly used during family gatherings and historical discussions.
- A respectful way to keep memories of loved ones alive.
What It Means
Parler des morts is about keeping memories alive. It means discussing friends or family members who are no longer here. You aren't being spooky or morbid when you use it. Instead, you are usually being respectful or nostalgic. It is a way to bridge the gap between the past and present.
How To Use It
You use it just like the English phrase 'talk about the dead.' Simply conjugate the verb parler to match your subject. For example, nous parlons or je parle. It follows a very standard sentence structure. You can add adverbs like souvent to say you talk about them often. It is a very accessible phrase for beginners.
When To Use It
Use this during family dinners when someone mentions a grandparent. It is perfect for holidays like *La Toussaint* in November. You might use it while looking through old photo albums. It is also common when visiting a cemetery with a friend. It feels natural in any situation involving shared history.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this phrase if the mood is extremely cheerful. You don't want to bring it up at a wedding. Also, be careful if someone has just lost a loved one. In those moments, it might feel a bit too direct. Use it for general remembrance rather than immediate grief. Don't use it to tell ghost stories; that's different!
Cultural Background
In France, there is a deep respect for ancestry and history. Talking about the deceased is not a social taboo. Every November 1st, families visit graves to clean them and talk. This tradition makes the phrase very common in French households. It is seen as a way to maintain a connection to one's roots.
Common Variations
You might hear parler de la mort, which means talking about death itself. If you want to be more formal, use évoquer les défunts. For a softer touch, people say parler de ceux qui nous ont quittés. This means 'talking about those who have left us.' Each variation changes the emotional weight slightly.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral and safe for A1 learners. Just be mindful of the social context to ensure you aren't bringing down a happy mood unnecessarily.
Don't be afraid of the word 'mort'
In English, 'dead' can feel blunt, but in French, 'les morts' is a standard, respectful way to refer to ancestors.
Watch your prepositions
Always use 'de' (parler DE). Never say 'parler sur' or 'parler à' unless you mean something very different.
Use 'les disparus' for extra empathy
If you want to sound more compassionate, swap 'morts' for 'disparus'.
Examples
6Nous aimons parler des morts pour ne pas les oublier.
We like to talk about the dead so we don't forget them.
A common way to express the importance of memory.
C'est le moment idéal pour parler des morts de la famille.
It's the perfect time to talk about the family's deceased.
Using the phrase to initiate storytelling.
Pendant la Toussaint, on a l'habitude de parler des morts.
During All Saints' Day, we usually talk about the dead.
Explaining a cultural custom simply.
Nous sommes réunis pour parler des morts avec dignité.
We are gathered to speak of the dead with dignity.
A more solemn and respectful use of the phrase.
J'ai rêvé de grand-père, j'ai envie de parler des morts ce soir.
I dreamed of grandpa, I feel like talking about the dead tonight.
Informal and personal reflection.
Ma tante adore parler des morts, elle connaît toutes les histoires !
My aunt loves talking about the dead, she knows all the stories!
Lighthearted take on a relative who loves genealogy.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase.
Le premier novembre, les Français aiment ________ des morts.
After the verb 'aiment', we need the infinitive form 'parler'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the most natural way to say 'We are talking about the dead'.
'Parler de' is the correct construction, and 'des morts' refers to the people.
Fill in the missing line.
A: Pourquoi est-ce que tu regardes ces vieilles photos ? B: ________________________.
This is the most logical and culturally appropriate response to looking at family photos.
Match the phrase to the situation.
In which situation would you most likely hear 'Il faut parler des morts avec respect'?
Respectful talk about the deceased is a hallmark of funeral gatherings.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Morts vs. Mort
Practice Bank
4 exercisesLe premier novembre, les Français aiment ________ des morts.
After the verb 'aiment', we need the infinitive form 'parler'.
Choose the most natural way to say 'We are talking about the dead'.
'Parler de' is the correct construction, and 'des morts' refers to the people.
A: Pourquoi est-ce que tu regardes ces vieilles photos ? B: ________________________.
This is the most logical and culturally appropriate response to looking at family photos.
In which situation would you most likely hear 'Il faut parler des morts avec respect'?
Respectful talk about the deceased is a hallmark of funeral gatherings.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it is a neutral and respectful phrase. However, in very fresh grief, people might use softer terms like 'ceux qui nous ont quittés'.
Technically yes, but 'parler du défunt' or 'parler de lui/elle' is more common for a single individual.
'Morts' is the general word; 'défunts' is more formal and often used in legal or religious contexts.
'Des' is the contraction of 'de' + 'les'. We are talking about 'the' dead (a specific group or ancestors).
It's most common during family reunions, funerals, or on the holiday of La Toussaint.
Related Phrases
évoquer les disparus
similarTo evoke those who have disappeared/passed.
honorer la mémoire
builds onTo honor the memory.
dire du bien des morts
specialized formTo speak well of the dead.
faire son deuil
similarTo go through the grieving process.
