French Grammar: How to use "chez"

The French preposition "chez" is a versatile and frequently used word that often confuses English speakers. Let's explore its meaning and various uses in everyday French conversations.

Basic Meaning

"Chez" generally translates to "at the home of" or "at the place of" in English. It's used to indicate location, specifically referring to someone's home, workplace, or establishment.

Common Uses

Referring to Someone's Home

• Je vais chez Marie. (I'm going to Marie's house.)
• Il habite chez ses parents. (He lives at his parents' house.)

Referring to Businesses

"Chez" can also be used when talking about shops, restaurants, or other establishments:

• On dîne chez Pierre ce soir. (We're dining at Pierre's restaurant tonight.)
• J'achète mon pain chez le boulanger du coin. (I buy my bread at the corner bakery.)

In Expressions

"Chez" appears in several idiomatic expressions:

• Chez nous (In our country/region/home)
• Chez moi (At my place)
• Chez soi (At one's own home)

Important Notes

1. "Chez" is always followed by a person or a personal pronoun, never an inanimate object.
2. It's not used with place names. For example, you wouldn't say "chez Paris" but "à Paris."

By understanding the various uses of "chez," you'll be able to express locations and ownership more naturally in French conversations.