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A2 noun 9 min read

faire la sieste

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

faire la sieste in 30 Seconds

  • Faire la sieste: to take a nap.
  • Commonly done in the afternoon.
  • Helps to feel refreshed and regain energy.
  • Cultural practice in France and other regions.
The phrase "faire la sieste" literally translates to "to make the nap." In French culture, taking a sieste, or a short nap, is a common practice, especially in warmer climates or after a large meal. It's a way to recharge energy and combat the afternoon slump. You might hear people say they are going to "faire la sieste" when they feel tired in the afternoon, or when they want to relax for a bit before continuing their day. It's a cherished part of the daily routine for many, promoting well-being and productivity. The concept of a sieste is deeply ingrained in many Mediterranean and Latin cultures, including France, Spain, and Italy. It's not just about sleeping; it's a cultural practice that emphasizes balance between work and rest. Children are often encouraged to "faire la sieste" to help them grow and develop. Adults might "faire la sieste" to improve their concentration and mood, especially if they had a late night or an early start. It's a gentle way to break up the day and avoid the exhaustion that can set in during the afternoon hours.
Cultural Significance
In many French-speaking regions, particularly those with hot climates, the afternoon is a time for rest. Shops might close for a couple of hours, and people retreat indoors to avoid the heat and take a nap. This tradition is known as the "pause déjeuner" or "sieste." While the strict observance of this pause has lessened in major cities due to modern work schedules, the idea of a short rest in the afternoon remains culturally relevant.
When to Use It
You would use "faire la sieste" when you intend to take a short sleep during the day, typically in the afternoon. It's a deliberate act of resting to feel refreshed. It's not usually used for a full night's sleep. For example, if you've had a tiring morning or if it's a very hot day, you might decide to "faire la sieste" for an hour or two.

Après le déjeuner, j'aime bien faire la sieste pendant une heure.

The verb "faire" (to do/to make) is frequently used in French to form idiomatic expressions, and "faire la sieste" is a prime example. It functions as a verb phrase, where "faire" is conjugated according to the subject and tense, and "la sieste" remains constant. You will most commonly see it used in the present tense, but it can also appear in other tenses to describe past or future naps. For instance, "Il fait la sieste" means "He is taking a nap." In the past tense, "Elle a fait la sieste" translates to "She took a nap." For future intentions, "Nous allons faire la sieste" means "We are going to take a nap." The structure is quite predictable: Subject + conjugated form of 'faire' + 'la sieste'. This phrase is versatile and can be used in both spoken and written French. It's a natural way to express the act of napping. Consider these examples to grasp the usage: "Les enfants font la sieste après l'école" (The children take a nap after school). "Mon grand-père adore faire la sieste sur son fauteuil" (My grandfather loves to take a nap in his armchair). "Il est important de faire la sieste quand on est fatigué" (It is important to take a nap when one is tired). The phrase is straightforward and doesn't typically involve complex grammatical structures beyond the conjugation of "faire." It's a common and easily understood expression.
Basic Sentence Structure
The core structure is always: [Subject] + [conjugated 'faire'] + la sieste. For example, 'Je fais la sieste' (I am taking a nap). The verb 'faire' changes based on who is doing the napping and when.
Using Different Tenses
You can express napping in various tenses. For example, in the passé composé: 'Il a fait la sieste' (He took a nap). In the futur proche: 'Nous allons faire la sieste' (We are going to take a nap). In the imperfect: 'Elle faisait la sieste tous les après-midis' (She used to take a nap every afternoon).

Quand j'étais petit, je devais faire la sieste tous les jours.

You will hear "faire la sieste" in everyday conversations in France and other French-speaking countries. It's a common phrase used by parents talking about their children, by elderly people discussing their daily routines, or by anyone feeling drowsy. Imagine a conversation between friends: "Je suis tellement fatigué aujourd'hui. Je crois que je vais faire la sieste cet après-midi." (I'm so tired today. I think I'm going to take a nap this afternoon.) Or a parent telling their child: "C'est l'heure de faire la sieste, mon petit." (It's time to take a nap, my little one.) In a more formal setting, perhaps discussing lifestyle choices, someone might say: "Dans mon village, beaucoup de gens prennent le temps de faire la sieste." (In my village, many people take the time to take a nap.) It's also a phrase you'd find in books, articles about health and well-being, or even in children's stories. The ubiquity of the phrase reflects the cultural acceptance and practice of napping. You might also encounter it in travel guides describing the local customs of certain regions. For example, a guide to Provence might mention that it's customary to "faire la sieste" during the hottest part of the day. The phrase is so common that it's almost second nature for native speakers.
Family Conversations
Parents often tell their children, "Il faut faire la sieste" (You must take a nap). This is a very common scenario.
Daily Life Discussion
Adults might say, "Je vais faire la sieste un peu avant de sortir." (I'm going to take a little nap before going out.) This is a casual and common statement.

Ma grand-mère dit toujours qu'il faut faire la sieste pour rester en forme.

One common mistake for English speakers is trying to translate "to take a nap" too literally, perhaps using "prendre une sieste." While "prendre" (to take) is a common verb, the fixed expression in French is "faire la sieste." So, saying "Je prends une sieste" would sound unnatural or incorrect to a native speaker. Another potential pitfall is misconjugating "faire." Since "faire" is an irregular verb, learners might struggle with its various forms. For example, using "Je fait la sieste" instead of "Je fais la sieste" is a grammatical error. It's also important to remember that "sieste" is feminine and singular, and the article "la" is almost always used with it in this expression. Avoid using "une sieste" unless you are referring to one specific nap out of many possibilities, which is less common in the general expression. For instance, instead of saying "Je veux faire une sieste," it's more idiomatic to say "Je veux faire la sieste" if you are referring to the general act of napping. The phrase is idiomatic, meaning its meaning isn't directly deducible from the individual words. Therefore, memorizing the entire phrase as a unit is crucial.
Using 'Prendre' instead of 'Faire'
A frequent error is using "prendre la sieste" or "prendre une sieste." The correct idiomatic expression is always "faire la sieste." For example, instead of "Je prends une sieste," say "Je fais la sieste." This is a very common mistake for learners.
Incorrect Conjugation of 'Faire'
Since 'faire' is irregular, learners might misconjugate it. For example, saying "Il fait la sieste" is correct, but saying "Il fait la sieste" (with 'fait' instead of 'fais' for 'je') or other incorrect forms is a mistake. Always double-check the conjugation of 'faire' for the correct subject.

Incorrect: Je prends la sieste. Correct: Je fais la sieste.

While "faire la sieste" is the most common and idiomatic way to say "to take a nap," there are other ways to express a short sleep, though they might carry slightly different nuances. The noun "une sieste" itself refers to a nap. So, you could say "J'ai besoin d'une sieste" (I need a nap), which focuses on the need for the nap rather than the action of taking it. Another verb that can be used is "dormir" (to sleep), but it's more general. You could say "Je vais dormir un peu" (I'm going to sleep a little), which implies a short sleep but doesn't specifically mean a nap. "Se reposer" (to rest) is also related. "Je vais me reposer" (I'm going to rest) can include napping, but also just relaxing without sleeping. In terms of formality, "faire la sieste" is generally neutral and widely understood. For a very informal context, you might hear "faire un dodo" (literally "to make a sleep-sleep"), which is often used with children or in a very casual, affectionate way, but it's not a standard expression for adults.
Noun 'Une Sieste'
Instead of the verb phrase, you can use the noun "une sieste." For example, "J'ai fait une sieste" (I took a nap) is perfectly correct and common. It emphasizes the nap itself as an event.
General Verb 'Dormir'
The verb "dormir" (to sleep) can be used with an adverb like "un peu" (a little) to indicate a short sleep. "Je vais dormir un peu" (I'm going to sleep a little) is a valid alternative, though less specific than "faire la sieste."
Verb 'Se Reposer'
"Se reposer" means "to rest." While resting can include napping, it's broader. "Je vais me reposer" (I'm going to rest) might mean sitting down quietly or taking a nap. It's less precise for just napping.

Alternative: J'ai besoin d'une sieste.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The concept of the sieste is ancient, dating back to Roman times when the sixth hour after sunrise was a common time for rest. This tradition persisted through the centuries and is deeply embedded in the cultures of many Mediterranean and Latin countries.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /fɛʁ la sjɛst/
US /fɛʁ la sjɛst/
The primary stress in the phrase falls on the last syllable of 'sieste', which is pronounced with a slight emphasis.
Rhymes With
reste fête terre veste progrès lait père chaise maîtresse adresse
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the final 't' in 'sieste' as in English.
  • Using an English 'r' sound instead of the French uvular 'r'.
  • Incorrectly pronouncing the 'ai' diphthong in 'faire'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The phrase 'faire la sieste' is quite common and its meaning is usually clear from context. Learners at the A2 level should be able to understand it when encountered in texts related to daily routines or well-being. The grammatical structure is straightforward, involving the conjugation of 'faire'.

Writing 2/5
Speaking 2/5
Listening 2/5

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

faire sieste jour après-midi fatigué

Learn Next

avoir besoin de aimer dormir se reposer sommeil

Advanced

chronobiologie vigilance récupération bien-être diurne

Grammar to Know

Conjugation of 'faire' in the present tense.

Je fais, tu fais, il/elle/on fait, nous faisons, vous faites, ils/elles font.

Using the infinitive after 'aimer', 'vouloir', 'pouvoir', 'devoir'.

J'aime faire la sieste. Je veux faire la sieste.

Using the passé composé with 'avoir'.

Elle a fait la sieste.

Using 'aller' + infinitive for the futur proche.

Nous allons faire la sieste.

Using the imperative form of 'faire'.

Fais la sieste !

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Examples by Level

1

Le bébé fait la sieste.

The baby is taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'le bébé' (he/she).

2

Papa fait la sieste.

Dad is taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'Papa' (he).

3

Je fais la sieste.

I am taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'Je' (I).

4

Elle fait la sieste.

She is taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'Elle' (She).

5

Il fait la sieste.

He is taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'Il' (He).

6

C'est l'heure de la sieste.

It's nap time.

Using the noun 'la sieste' to indicate time.

7

Le chien fait la sieste.

The dog is taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'Le chien' (it).

8

On fait la sieste.

We are taking a nap.

'faire' is conjugated for 'On' (we/one).

1

Après le déjeuner, j'aime faire la sieste.

After lunch, I like to take a nap.

The infinitive form 'faire la sieste' follows 'aimer'.

2

Les enfants font la sieste dans leurs chambres.

The children are taking a nap in their rooms.

'font' is the plural conjugation of 'faire' for 'les enfants'.

3

Quand il fait très chaud, il est bon de faire la sieste.

When it's very hot, it's good to take a nap.

'faire la sieste' used in a general statement.

4

Elle a fait la sieste pendant une heure.

She took a nap for an hour.

Using the passé composé 'a fait' for a completed action.

5

Mon grand-père fait la sieste tous les après-midis.

My grandfather takes a nap every afternoon.

Present tense used for a habitual action.

6

Il est fatigué, il va faire la sieste.

He is tired, he is going to take a nap.

Using 'aller' + infinitive (futur proche) to express immediate future action.

7

Nous avons décidé de faire la sieste avant de partir.

We decided to take a nap before leaving.

Infinitive 'faire la sieste' follows 'décider de'.

8

Fais la sieste, mon enfant.

Take a nap, my child.

Imperative form 'Fais' used for direct command.

1

Après une longue randonnée, faire la sieste est un vrai plaisir.

After a long hike, taking a nap is a real pleasure.

The infinitive phrase 'faire la sieste' acts as the subject of the sentence.

2

Elle avait l'habitude de faire la sieste quand elle était petite.

She used to take a nap when she was little.

Using the imperfect tense with 'avoir l'habitude de' to express a past habit.

3

Le décalage horaire m'oblige à faire la sieste pendant la journée.

Jet lag forces me to take naps during the day.

'faire la sieste' follows 'obliger à'.

4

J'ai rêvé que je faisais la sieste sur une plage tropicale.

I dreamed that I was taking a nap on a tropical beach.

Subjunctive mood might be implied in dreams, but here 'faisais' (imperfect indicative) is used for the ongoing action within the dream.

5

Pour être plus productif, certains recommandent de faire une courte sieste.

To be more productive, some recommend taking a short nap.

Here, 'faire une courte sieste' is used, emphasizing the noun aspect, but 'faire la sieste' is also common.

6

Il faut se méfier des siestes trop longues qui peuvent perturber le sommeil nocturne.

One must be wary of naps that are too long, as they can disrupt nighttime sleep.

Uses the noun 'siestes' and implies the action of taking them.

7

La chaleur de l'après-midi incite beaucoup de gens à faire la sieste.

The afternoon heat encourages many people to take a nap.

'faire la sieste' follows 'inciter à'.

8

Si tu te sens somnolent, n'hésite pas à faire la sieste.

If you feel sleepy, don't hesitate to take a nap.

Imperative 'n'hésite pas à' followed by the infinitive 'faire la sieste'.

1

Les bienfaits de faire la sieste régulièrement sur la concentration sont bien documentés.

The benefits of regularly taking naps on concentration are well-documented.

The gerundial phrase 'faire la sieste régulièrement' acts as the subject.

2

Dans certaines cultures, faire la sieste est une pratique sociale profondément ancrée.

In some cultures, taking a nap is a deeply ingrained social practice.

'faire la sieste' is used as a general concept.

3

Il est conseillé de ne pas faire la sieste trop tard dans l'après-midi pour ne pas nuire au sommeil nocturne.

It is advisable not to nap too late in the afternoon so as not to harm nighttime sleep.

Negative infinitive 'ne pas faire la sieste' preceded by 'conseillé de'.

4

Après avoir traversé le désert, nous avons eu besoin de faire la sieste avant de reprendre notre voyage.

After crossing the desert, we needed to take a nap before continuing our journey.

'faire la sieste' follows 'avoir besoin de'.

5

La recherche suggère que faire la sieste peut améliorer la mémoire et l'apprentissage.

Research suggests that taking a nap can improve memory and learning.

'faire la sieste' as a subject, followed by 'peut améliorer'.

6

Ma grand-mère, qui vit dans le sud de la France, ne manque jamais de faire la sieste.

My grandmother, who lives in the south of France, never fails to take a nap.

Relative clause modifying 'ma grand-mère', followed by 'ne manque jamais de faire la sieste'.

7

Certains employés demandent s'il est possible de faire la sieste au bureau pendant la pause déjeuner.

Some employees ask if it's possible to nap at the office during the lunch break.

'faire la sieste' is the object of the question 's'il est possible de'.

8

Il est essentiel de trouver le bon équilibre entre activité et repos, et pour beaucoup, cela inclut de faire la sieste.

It is essential to find the right balance between activity and rest, and for many, this includes taking a nap.

'faire la sieste' is part of a list of activities that constitute rest.

1

L'efficacité cognitive est souvent optimisée par une courte période de sieste, communément appelée 'faire la sieste'.

Cognitive efficiency is often optimized by a short period of napping, commonly referred to as 'taking a nap'.

'faire la sieste' is used here as a defining phrase for the concept of napping.

2

L'art de faire la sieste, loin d'être une simple paresse, est une stratégie reconnue pour améliorer la vigilance et la performance.

The art of napping, far from being simple laziness, is a recognized strategy for improving alertness and performance.

'faire la sieste' is presented as a skill or art form.

3

Compte tenu de l'intensité de son travail, il est compréhensible qu'il ait besoin de faire la sieste pour récupérer.

Given the intensity of his work, it is understandable that he needs to take a nap to recover.

'faire la sieste' follows 'avoir besoin de' and is linked to recovery.

4

Les chronobiologistes soulignent l'importance de synchroniser nos rythmes biologiques, et faire la sieste peut y contribuer.

Chronobiologists emphasize the importance of synchronizing our biological rhythms, and napping can contribute to this.

'faire la sieste' is presented as a contributing factor to biological rhythm synchronization.

5

Dans le tumulte de la vie moderne, trouver le temps de faire la sieste relève parfois de l'exploit.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to nap is sometimes an achievement.

'faire la sieste' is framed as a difficult but desirable action in a busy world.

6

Ma grand-mère, une fervente adepte des traditions provençales, ne manque jamais de faire la sieste après le repas de midi.

My grandmother, a staunch follower of Provençal traditions, never fails to take a nap after the midday meal.

'faire la sieste' is presented as a key part of a traditional routine.

7

Il est indéniable que faire la sieste peut avoir des répercussions positives sur l'humeur et la productivité.

It is undeniable that taking a nap can have positive repercussions on mood and productivity.

'faire la sieste' is the subject of the verb 'peut avoir'.

8

L'idéal serait de pouvoir intégrer une courte période de sieste dans notre emploi du temps, mais la réalité nous oblige souvent à renoncer à faire la sieste.

The ideal would be to be able to integrate a short napping period into our schedule, but reality often forces us to give up napping.

Contrasts the ideal of 'faire la sieste' with the reality of not being able to.

1

L'institutionnalisation de la 'sieste' dans certains environnements professionnels vise à capitaliser sur les bénéfices cognitifs de faire la sieste.

The institutionalization of the 'nap' in certain professional environments aims to capitalize on the cognitive benefits of napping.

'faire la sieste' is used to define the action that leads to the cognitive benefits.

2

La perception culturelle de faire la sieste varie considérablement, passant d'un signe de paresse à une stratégie de performance reconnue.

The cultural perception of napping varies considerably, from a sign of laziness to a recognized performance strategy.

'faire la sieste' is discussed in terms of its cultural interpretation.

3

Au-delà de la simple récupération physique, faire la sieste est souvent une quête de clarté mentale et de recentrage émotionnel.

Beyond simple physical recovery, napping is often a quest for mental clarity and emotional refocusing.

'faire la sieste' is presented as a means to achieve higher-level personal goals.

4

Les implications physiologiques de faire la sieste, notamment sur la régulation de l'humeur et la gestion du stress, sont un domaine de recherche actif.

The physiological implications of napping, particularly on mood regulation and stress management, are an active area of research.

'faire la sieste' is the subject of detailed physiological study.

5

L'engouement pour le 'power nap' dans les pays anglophones a influencé la manière dont faire la sieste est perçu dans d'autres cultures.

The craze for the 'power nap' in English-speaking countries has influenced how napping is perceived in other cultures.

'faire la sieste' is contrasted with the 'power nap' concept.

6

Il est primordial de distinguer faire la sieste d'un sommeil nocturne prolongé, car leurs effets sur l'organisme sont distincts.

It is paramount to distinguish napping from prolonged nighttime sleep, as their effects on the body are distinct.

'faire la sieste' is compared and contrasted with another sleep state.

7

La capacité à faire la sieste efficacement est parfois considérée comme une compétence acquise, influençant la productivité individuelle.

The ability to nap effectively is sometimes considered an acquired skill, influencing individual productivity.

'faire la sieste' is framed as a skill that can be developed.

8

Les recommandations concernant la durée et le moment optimal pour faire la sieste varient en fonction des objectifs recherchés, qu'il s'agisse de récupération ou d'amélioration cognitive.

Recommendations regarding the optimal duration and timing for napping vary depending on the desired goals, whether for recovery or cognitive enhancement.

'faire la sieste' is discussed in terms of strategic planning and optimization.

Synonyms

dormir un peu se reposer avoir une petite somme faire un dodo somnoler se 'recharger les batteries' prendre un moment de repos faire une pause

Antonyms

rester éveillé travailler être actif veille

Common Collocations

faire la sieste après le déjeuner
faire la sieste pendant une heure
faire la sieste au soleil
faire la sieste dans le canapé
faire la sieste dans le train
faire la sieste quand on est fatigué
faire la sieste pour se réveiller
faire la sieste quand il fait chaud
faire la sieste est bénéfique
interdire de faire la sieste

Common Phrases

Je vais faire la sieste.

— I am going to take a nap. This is a direct statement of intention to sleep briefly.

Je suis très fatigué, je vais faire la sieste une petite heure.

Il faut faire la sieste.

— One must take a nap. This implies a necessity or strong recommendation for napping.

Quand on est malade, il faut faire la sieste pour récupérer.

C'est l'heure de faire la sieste.

— It's time to take a nap. This is used to announce that it's the designated time for a nap.

Pour les tout-petits, c'est l'heure de faire la sieste.

Elle a fait la sieste.

— She took a nap. This refers to a completed action of napping.

Elle a fait la sieste cet après-midi et se sent beaucoup mieux.

On fait la sieste ?

— Shall we take a nap? This is a suggestion or question to others about napping.

Il fait chaud, on fait la sieste ?

Faire la sieste, c'est bon pour la santé.

— Taking a nap is good for your health. This states a general benefit of napping.

Mon médecin dit que faire la sieste, c'est bon pour la santé.

Il ne fait jamais la sieste.

— He never takes a nap. This indicates someone who does not nap.

Mon frère est incapable de faire la sieste, il reste éveillé toute la journée.

Faire la sieste trop longtemps.

— To nap for too long. This refers to oversleeping during a nap.

Attention à ne pas faire la sieste trop longtemps, cela peut perturber le sommeil de la nuit.

Le plaisir de faire la sieste.

— The pleasure of taking a nap. This describes the enjoyable aspect of napping.

Après une semaine de travail intense, le plaisir de faire la sieste est immense.

Je n'arrive pas à faire la sieste.

— I can't manage to take a nap. This indicates difficulty in napping.

Même quand je suis fatigué, je n'arrive pas à faire la sieste.

Often Confused With

faire la sieste vs dormir

'Dormir' is the general verb for 'to sleep'. 'Faire la sieste' specifically refers to a short sleep during the day, usually in the afternoon. You can 'dormir' at night, but you 'faites la sieste' during the day.

faire la sieste vs se reposer

'Se reposer' means 'to rest'. While a nap is a form of rest, 'se reposer' can also mean simply relaxing without sleeping. 'Faire la sieste' is more specific to the act of sleeping.

faire la sieste vs somnoler

'Somnoler' means 'to doze' or 'to be drowsy'. It implies a lighter state of sleep or being on the verge of sleep, whereas 'faire la sieste' suggests a more deliberate and often deeper sleep for a defined period.

Idioms & Expressions

"Faire la sieste comme un bébé"

— To sleep like a baby. This idiom implies sleeping very deeply and peacefully, often used to describe someone taking a good nap.

Après son long voyage, il a fait la sieste comme un bébé pendant trois heures.

neutral
"Avoir le coup de barre de l'après-midi"

— To have the afternoon slump. While not directly 'faire la sieste', this phrase describes the feeling that often leads people to want to 'faire la sieste'.

Je ressens le coup de barre de l'après-midi, je crois que je vais faire la sieste.

neutral
"Dormir sur ses deux oreilles"

— To sleep soundly (literally 'to sleep on both ears'). This idiom is about sleeping without worry, but it implies a deep sleep, which could be a nap.

Après avoir terminé son projet, il a pu dormir sur ses deux oreilles.

neutral
"Être dans le coaltar"

— To be fast asleep (very informal, often used for deep sleep). This implies a very deep sleep, which could describe someone taking a long, deep nap.

Il était tellement fatigué qu'il était dans le coaltar dès qu'il s'est couché.

informal
"Faire un gros dodo"

— To have a big sleep (informal, often for children). Similar to 'faire un dodo', but emphasizes a longer or deeper sleep, like a substantial nap.

Le bébé a fait un gros dodo après sa promenade.

childish/informal
"Se remettre en selle"

— To get back in the saddle (figurative). Taking a nap can help someone 'se remettre en selle' after a period of fatigue.

Une petite sieste m'aide à me remettre en selle pour le reste de la journée.

figurative/neutral
"Se ressourcer"

— To recharge one's batteries (figurative). Taking a nap is a way to 'se ressourcer'.

Je vais faire la sieste pour me ressourcer avant la réunion.

figurative/neutral
"Reprendre des forces"

— To regain strength. A nap helps one to 'reprendre des forces'.

Après avoir fait la sieste, j'ai repris des forces pour continuer mon travail.

neutral
"Avoir les yeux qui se ferment"

— To have one's eyes closing (literally). This describes the physical sensation of being sleepy and wanting to take a nap.

J'ai les yeux qui se ferment, je crois que je vais faire la sieste.

neutral
"Être sur les rotules"

— To be exhausted (literally 'to be on the kneecaps'). This state often leads to the need to 'faire la sieste'.

Après avoir couru le marathon, il était sur les rotules et a fait une longue sieste.

informal

Easily Confused

faire la sieste vs sommeil

Both relate to sleep. 'Sommeil' is the noun for 'sleep' in general.

'Faire la sieste' is the action of taking a nap. 'Le sommeil' refers to the state of sleep itself, or the need for sleep. You 'faites la sieste' to get 'le sommeil'.

Je manque de sommeil. Je dois faire la sieste.

faire la sieste vs prendre

'Prendre' means 'to take', and English speakers might try to translate 'to take a nap' as 'prendre une sieste'.

The idiomatic expression in French for 'to take a nap' is 'faire la sieste', not 'prendre une sieste'. 'Prendre' is used with other nouns like 'prendre une douche' (to take a shower) or 'prendre une décision' (to make a decision).

Correct: Je vais faire la sieste. Incorrect: Je vais prendre une sieste.

faire la sieste vs se réveiller

These are opposite actions related to sleep.

'Faire la sieste' is the act of falling asleep for a short period. 'Se réveiller' is the act of waking up from sleep. You 'faites la sieste' and then you 'se réveillez'.

Après avoir fait la sieste, je me suis réveillé.

faire la sieste vs dodo

Both relate to sleep, and 'dodo' is often used for children's sleep.

'Faire la sieste' is a standard, neutral term for napping. 'Faire un dodo' is informal and often used with children, meaning 'to have a sleep/nap'.

Le bébé fait la sieste. / Le bébé fait un dodo.

faire la sieste vs veille

Both are related to periods of being awake or asleep.

'Faire la sieste' is sleeping during the day. 'Veille' means staying awake, often through the night (like a vigil or staying up late). They are opposite in terms of timing and purpose.

Il a fait la sieste après avoir fait la veille.

Sentence Patterns

A1

Subject + fait la sieste.

Le bébé <strong>fait la sieste</strong>.

A2

Subject + aime + faire la sieste.

J'aime <strong>faire la sieste</strong>.

A2

Il faut + faire la sieste.

Il faut <strong>faire la sieste</strong> quand on est fatigué.

B1

Subject + a + fait la sieste.

Elle a <strong>fait la sieste</strong>.

B1

Subject + va + faire la sieste.

Nous allons <strong>faire la sieste</strong>.

B2

Après + noun/infinitive, + faire la sieste.

Après le déjeuner, je vais <strong>faire la sieste</strong>.

B2

Il est + adjective + de + faire la sieste.

Il est important de <strong>faire la sieste</strong>.

C1

La pratique de + faire la sieste + est...

La pratique de <strong>faire la sieste</strong> est bénéfique.

Word Family

Nouns

sieste

Verbs

faire
dormir
se reposer
somnoler

Adjectives

fatigué(e)
endormi(e)
reposé(e)

Related

dormir
repos
sommeil
veille
éveillé
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How to Use It

frequency

Very common, especially in spoken French and in contexts related to daily life, rest, and well-being.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'prendre la sieste' or 'prendre une sieste'. → Faire la sieste.

    The correct idiomatic expression in French is 'faire la sieste', not 'prendre une sieste'. While 'prendre' means 'to take', French uses 'faire' in this specific context. For example, say 'Je vais faire la sieste', not 'Je vais prendre une sieste'.

  • Incorrect conjugation of 'faire'. → Correct conjugation of 'faire' (e.g., je fais, tu fais, il fait, nous faisons, vous faites, ils font).

    'Faire' is an irregular verb. Learners often make mistakes with its conjugation. For instance, saying 'Je fait la sieste' instead of the correct 'Je fais la sieste' is a common error.

  • Using 'dormir' when 'faire la sieste' is more appropriate. → Faire la sieste (for a daytime nap).

    'Dormir' is a general verb for 'to sleep'. 'Faire la sieste' specifically refers to a short nap taken during the day. While a sieste is a form of sleep, using 'dormir' might be too general if you mean a specific daytime nap.

  • Using 'une sieste' instead of 'la sieste' in the expression. → Faire la sieste.

    The standard idiomatic expression uses the definite article 'la': 'faire la sieste'. While 'une sieste' is grammatically correct on its own (e.g., 'J'ai fait une sieste'), in the verb phrase, 'la sieste' is the fixed form.

  • Pronouncing the final 't' in 'sieste'. → Pronounce 'sieste' without the final 't' sound.

    In standard French pronunciation, the final consonant 't' in 'sieste' is silent. English speakers often mistakenly pronounce it. The pronunciation is closer to 'syest'.

Tips

Mastering the 'r' sound

The French 'r' in 'faire' and 'sieste' is often produced in the back of the throat (uvular). Practice this sound separately. It's different from the English 'r'. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them. Don't worry if it's not perfect at first; clarity is key.

Conjugate 'Faire' Correctly

Remember that 'faire' is an irregular verb. Always check its conjugation for the correct subject (je fais, tu fais, il fait, nous faisons, vous faites, ils font). This is crucial for using 'faire la sieste' accurately.

Learn as a Phrase

Treat 'faire la sieste' as a single unit, an idiomatic expression. Trying to translate 'to take' and 'a nap' separately can lead to errors. Memorize the whole phrase to use it confidently.

Embrace the Culture

Understand that napping is culturally accepted and even valued in French-speaking societies. This context can help you feel more confident using the phrase. Think of it as a healthy recharge, not laziness.

Listen and Repeat

Listen to how native speakers use 'faire la sieste' in conversations, movies, or songs. Try to repeat the phrase yourself, focusing on natural intonation. This will help you integrate it into your active vocabulary.

Write Sentences Daily

Incorporate 'faire la sieste' into your daily writing practice. Write sentences about your own naps, or imagine situations where characters might take one. This reinforces both the meaning and the grammar.

Use it in Conversation

When you feel tired during the day, try saying 'Je vais faire la sieste' to a French-speaking friend or practice partner. The more you use it in real communication, the more natural it will become.

Visual Association

Create a mental image: a peaceful afternoon, a comfortable bed, and someone happily napping. Associate this image strongly with the phrase 'faire la sieste' to aid recall.

Avoid 'Prendre la sieste'

A common mistake is using 'prendre' instead of 'faire'. Always remember it's 'faire la sieste'. Think of 'faire' as actively 'making' or 'doing' your nap.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'fairy' (faire) helping you to take a 'steady' (sieste) nap. The fairy makes your nap steady and peaceful. Or, think of 'fair' (faire) weather being perfect for a 'siesta' (sieste).

Visual Association

Picture a sunbeam on a comfortable couch, with a person peacefully asleep, perhaps with a clock showing early afternoon. The visual of a relaxed, sleeping person in the afternoon is key.

Word Web

nap sleep rest afternoon tired refresh recharge culture

Challenge

Try to use 'faire la sieste' in at least three different sentences today, describing when you or someone else might take a nap. For example: 'I feel tired, I'm going to faire la sieste.' or 'My cat likes to faire la sieste in the sun.' or 'It's important to faire la sieste when you're sick.'

Word Origin

The phrase 'faire la sieste' is a combination of the verb 'faire' (to do/to make) and the noun 'sieste' (nap). The word 'sieste' itself comes from the Latin word 'sexta', meaning 'sixth hour', referring to the midday hour when people traditionally rested.

Original meaning: The 'sixth hour' of the day, which corresponds to midday or early afternoon.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > French

Cultural Context

The phrase 'faire la sieste' is generally neutral and not sensitive. However, in very fast-paced or competitive work environments, discussing naps might be perceived differently depending on the specific culture of that workplace.

In English-speaking cultures, while naps are recognized for their benefits, the concept isn't as deeply ingrained or culturally celebrated as the 'sieste' in France. The term 'power nap' has gained popularity, reflecting a more utilitarian approach to napping for productivity.

The tradition of the 'siesta' is famously associated with Spain, but it is also a significant part of French culture, particularly in the warmer southern regions. Many works of art and literature depict characters taking naps, reflecting the universality of the need for rest. The concept of the 'sieste' is often contrasted with the more intense work ethic found in some Northern European and Anglo-Saxon cultures.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Discussing daily routines and habits.

  • Je fais la sieste tous les jours.
  • Il aime faire la sieste après le déjeuner.
  • C'est l'heure de faire la sieste.

Talking about feeling tired or needing rest.

  • Je suis fatigué, je vais faire la sieste.
  • J'ai besoin de faire la sieste.
  • Tu devrais faire la sieste.

Describing weather conditions, especially heat.

  • Quand il fait chaud, on fait la sieste.
  • Il est bon de faire la sieste par cette chaleur.
  • La chaleur nous incite à faire la sieste.

Parenting and childcare.

  • Le bébé fait la sieste.
  • C'est l'heure de faire la sieste.
  • Il faut faire la sieste pour grandir.

Health and well-being discussions.

  • Faire la sieste est bon pour la santé.
  • Une courte sieste peut améliorer la concentration.
  • Il est bénéfique de faire la sieste.

Conversation Starters

"Est-ce que tu aimes faire la sieste ?"

"Quand fais-tu la sieste d'habitude ?"

"Quel est ton meilleur souvenir de sieste ?"

"Penses-tu que faire la sieste est important ?"

"Comment te sens-tu après avoir fait la sieste ?"

Journal Prompts

Décris ton moment idéal pour faire la sieste. Où serais-tu et comment te sentirais-tu ?

Raconte une fois où faire la sieste t'a vraiment aidé. Qu'est-ce qui s'est passé avant et après ?

Si tu pouvais faire la sieste n'importe où, où choisirais-tu d'aller et pourquoi ?

Comment la culture de faire la sieste est-elle différente dans ton pays par rapport à la France ?

Quels sont les avantages et les inconvénients de faire la sieste selon toi ?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Dormir' is the general verb for 'to sleep' and can refer to sleeping at night or for longer periods. 'Faire la sieste' specifically means to take a short nap during the day, typically in the afternoon, to refresh oneself. So, while a sieste is a form of sleep, 'faire la sieste' is a more precise term for a daytime nap.

No, 'faire la sieste' is used in all French-speaking countries. The concept of the sieste is also common in Spain ('siesta'), Italy ('pisolino'), and many other cultures, especially those with warmer climates.

Generally, 'faire la sieste' implies a short nap, usually between 20 minutes and 1-2 hours. For longer periods of sleep, especially at night, one would simply use 'dormir'. However, in some contexts, a longer, restorative nap might still be referred to as 'faire la sieste'.

The most common time to 'faire la sieste' is in the early afternoon, after lunch, when natural sleepiness (the afternoon slump) often occurs. However, one can 'faire la sieste' whenever they feel tired and have the opportunity.

In French culture, and many other cultures that practice the sieste, it is generally not considered lazy. It's often seen as a healthy practice for well-being, energy restoration, and improved productivity. It's a way to balance activity with rest.

While 'prendre' means 'to take', the idiomatic expression in French is 'faire la sieste'. Saying 'prendre une sieste' might be understood, but it sounds less natural and is not the standard way to express this. It's best to stick to 'faire la sieste'.

'Faire la sieste' implies a deliberate act of taking a nap, usually for a set period, to get some restorative sleep. 'Somnoler' means to doze or to be drowsy; it's a lighter, less intentional state of light sleep or near-sleep.

You can say 'l'heure de la sieste' which means 'nap time'. For example, 'C'est l'heure de la sieste' means 'It's nap time'.

The verb 'faire' is very versatile in French and is used in many idiomatic expressions where its meaning isn't a direct translation of 'to do' or 'to make'. In 'faire la sieste', it functions as part of the idiomatic verb phrase meaning 'to take a nap'. Other examples include 'faire attention' (to pay attention) and 'faire beau' (to be nice weather).

Generally, no. It's viewed positively as a way to recharge. However, in very demanding or competitive work environments, or if it disrupts nighttime sleep, it might be perceived differently. But culturally, it's accepted and encouraged.

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