French is known to be the language of love. If you are looking for a simple phrase to impress your friends or even woo the special person in your life, taking something from the French language is sure to be a hit. Do you want to express to someone that they are your friend? Perhaps you are hoping they become a little bit more? If so, Mon Ami is a great phrase to bring you closer together. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The direct translation of Mon Ami is my friend. When translating from one language to the other, however, some subtleties are left behind. While the phrase means friend, it does have romantic connotations. You would not call your casual school buddy Mon Ami, however, a close friend or a partner would rather be referred to as Mon Ami.
The term is not gender-specific, but rather relationship-specific. It is a term of endearment typically reserved for those close to you or in a relationship with you. It is worth noting that outside of the US it is rare to see or hear someone refer to another as simply Mon Ami. The term is reserved for those with whom you hold a close relationship. It also is used to introduce rather than to address. For example, “this is my Mon Ami Rachel”, as opposed to “hi Mon Ami”.
Example Usage
“Hello! I want to introduce you all to my Mon Ami Jared”.
“Good afternoon all, before we get started, I want to introduce Mon Ami Andrew”.
“After so long my darling Mon Ami, we have at last been reunited”.
“Finally you are here! Dad, I want you to meet my Mon Amy Charlie and his mom”.
Origin
The French language has existed for hundreds of years and has evolved over time. While most words in the French language have existed in one form or the other, others are derivatives. Still, others are compound words that were through together to develop a new word. The earliest recorded use of Mon Ami in the friend language was by Edward, the Duke of York. It was recorded in 1373 and considered middle French. The word is actually a mix of two words, one being Mon which is my, and the other Ami, which is a friend.
In more modern times the phrase was often used on foreign travelers when they would visit France. Additionally, many people would overhear the term being used and take the words at their literal translation, which of course didn’t imply the deeper meaning. The phrase became popular as a greeting outside of France for casual friends. This advent increased as air travel became more affordable and migration became more accessible.
Phrases Similar to Mon Ami
- My friend
- My Love
- My heart
- My companion
- Buddy
- Pal
- Amore
- My good man
- My partner
- Dear fellow
- Ol’ pal
Phrases Opposite to Mon Ami
- My enemy
- My ex
- Stranger
- Skeeve
What is the correct saying?
- Mon Ami- My Friend
Ways People May Incorrectly Say
It may surprise you to know that the way most people use Mon Ami in the west is actually inaccurate. Using it as an address is the wrong way such as:
- Hello Mon Ami, how are you today?
- I am looking forward to seeing you soon Mon Ami.
- Where did my Mon Ami go? I have been looking all over the mall with no luck.
- My Mon Ami is right over there by the fountain, let’s go meet her.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase
- Thank you for coming, my name is Jill and this is my Mon Ami Andrew.
- You are all welcome to visit any time. Before you go, I think I forgot to introduce my Mon Ami Angela.
- I would like to welcome to the stage my Mon Ami Victoria and her dog Spot.