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How to Say “Money” in French: A Comprehensive Guide for Savvy Language Learners

So, you’re eager to navigate the fascinating world of French finance, are you? The most direct and widely accepted translation of “money” in French is “argent”. But like a well-diversified portfolio, the French language offers a multitude of nuanced ways to discuss finances. Let’s delve into the rich vocabulary surrounding argent and related expressions!

Beyond “Argent”: Exploring Synonyms and Related Terms

While argent is your go-to term, understanding its subtleties and alternatives will elevate your French fluency. Think of it as moving beyond simple savings accounts into the realm of investment opportunities.

Coinage and Currency

Understanding specific types of money is crucial. Here’s a breakdown:

Pièce: This refers to a coin. You might say “J’ai une pièce de deux euros” (I have a two-euro coin).
Billet: This refers to a bill or note. For example, “Un billet de cinq euros” (a five-euro bill).
Devise: This term refers to foreign currency. “J’ai besoin de changer mes dollars en devises” (I need to exchange my dollars into foreign currency).
Euro: The standard currency used in France.
Centime: One hundredth of a euro, similar to cents.

Slang and Informal Terms for Money

Just as in English, French has its own colourful slang for money, adding another layer of authenticity to your conversations.

Thune: A common, informal term for money, similar to “dough” or “cash” in English. “Je n’ai pas de thune” (I don’t have any money).
Fric: Another slang term for money, often used in a casual context. “Il a beaucoup de fric” (He has a lot of money).
Blé: Yet another slang term, meaning wheat, but used metaphorically for money. “Il faut du blé pour ce projet” (We need money for this project).
Pépettes: Another informal term for money, often used in playful contexts.

Abstract Concepts Related to Money

Moving beyond the tangible, understanding abstract terms related to money is vital for financial discussions.

Finance: This translates directly to finance, covering all aspects of money management.
Revenu: This means income. “Mon revenu mensuel est stable” (My monthly income is stable).
Dépenses: This means expenses. “Il faut réduire les dépenses” (We need to reduce expenses).
Budget: This is the French word for budget. “Nous devons établir un budget” (We need to set a budget).
Économies: This means savings. “J’ai mis de l’argent de côté pour mes économies” (I put money aside for my savings).
Impôts: This translates to taxes. “Je dois payer mes impôts” (I have to pay my taxes).
Riche: This means rich.
Pauvre: This means poor.

Putting it into Practice: Example Sentences

To truly master the art of discussing money in French, context is key. Here are some example sentences to illustrate how these terms are used in everyday conversations.

“Combien d’argent avez-vous dans votre portefeuille?” (How much money do you have in your wallet?)
“Je dois aller à la banque pour retirer de l’argent.” (I need to go to the bank to withdraw money.)
“Ce travail me rapporte beaucoup de fric.” (This job earns me a lot of money.)
“Nous devons faire attention à nos dépenses.” (We need to be careful with our expenses.)
“Elle a investi son argent dans l’immobilier.” (She invested her money in real estate.)
“Les impôts sont trop élevés.” (Taxes are too high.)
“Je suis fauché, je n’ai plus de thune.” (I’m broke, I have no money left.)
“Il faut gagner du blé pour les vacances.” (We need to earn money for the holidays.)
“Cette pièce est rare et coûte cher.” (This coin is rare and expensive.)
“Il a hérité une grosse somme d’argent.” (He inherited a large sum of money.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Money in French

To further clarify your understanding and address common queries, here are twelve frequently asked questions about how to say “money” in French, along with detailed answers.

Is argent the only way to say “money” in French? No, while it’s the most common, thune, fric, and blé are informal alternatives. The best choice depends on the context and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to.
How do I ask “How much does it cost?” in French? The most common way is “Combien ça coûte?” You can also say “Quel est le prix?” (What is the price?) or “Ça fait combien?” (How much is that?).
What’s the difference between économie and économies? Économie refers to the general concept of “economy,” while économies refers to “savings” (money saved).
How do I say “I’m broke” in French? There are several options. “Je suis fauché(e)” is a common and direct translation. You can also say “Je suis à sec” (I’m dry) or “Je n’ai plus un sou” (I don’t have a penny). Remember to use “fauché” if you’re male, and “fauchée” if you’re female.
How do I say “expensive” and “cheap” in French? “Expensive” is cher (masculine) or chère (feminine). “Cheap” is bon marché.
How do I ask for a discount in French? You can say “Est-ce que vous faites un prix?” (Do you offer a discount?), “Pouvez-vous me faire une réduction?” (Can you give me a discount?), or “C’est possible d’avoir un rabais?” (Is it possible to get a discount?).
What’s the word for “salary” in French? The most common word is salaire. You can also use rémunération.
How do I say “to earn money” in French? You can say “gagner de l’argent.”
What’s the equivalent of “spending money” in French? “Argent de poche” is the equivalent of “spending money” or “pocket money,” typically used for children or students.
How do I talk about currency exchange in French? The term for “currency exchange” is “change de devises.” You would say, for example, “Où puis-je faire du change de devises?” (Where can I exchange currency?).
How do you say “credit card” in French? The term for “credit card” is “carte de crédit”.
What are some common idioms related to money in French?
- Être cousu d’or: To be rolling in money (literally, to be sewn with gold).
- L’argent ne fait pas le bonheur: Money doesn’t buy happiness.
- Mettre de l’argent de côté: To put money aside (to save money).
- Coûter les yeux de la tête: To cost an arm and a leg (literally, to cost the eyes of the head).
- Être riche comme Crésus: To be as rich as Croesus (extremely rich).

By mastering these terms and understanding their nuances, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate financial conversations in French with confidence and flair. Now go forth and conquer the world of French finance, one euro at a time!