French preposition "chez": meaning and usage

The French preposition "chez" is a versatile and frequently used word that often confuses learners. Let's explore its meaning and usage to help you use it confidently in your French conversations.

Basic Meaning

"Chez" primarily means "at the home/place of" or "to the home/place of". It's used when referring to someone's residence, workplace, or establishment.

Common Uses

Referring to Someone's Home

"Chez" is commonly used to indicate being at or going to someone's home:

• Je vais chez Marie. (I'm going to Marie's house.)
• Nous dînons chez mes parents ce soir. (We're having dinner at my parents' tonight.)

Referring to Businesses

It's also used for businesses, especially those named after a person:

• J'achète mon pain chez le boulanger du coin. (I buy my bread at the corner baker's.)
• Elle va chez le coiffeur. (She's going to the hairdresser's.)

Idiomatic Expressions

"Chez" appears in several idiomatic expressions:

• Chez nous (In our country/region/home)
• Chez soi (At one's own home)
• Se sentir comme chez soi (To feel at home)

Important Notes

1. "Chez" is always followed by a person, pronoun, or personified entity.
2. It can't be used with place names. For example, you can't say "chez Paris".
3. When used with pronouns, use the stressed forms: chez moi, chez toi, chez lui, etc.

By mastering the use of "chez", you'll add a crucial element to your French language skills, allowing you to express location and possession more naturally and idiomatically.