A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "My mother-in-law" in French
The standard French term for 'my mother-in-law', used in everyday conversation.
ma belle-mère
mah BEL-mehrneutral
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When discussing your spouse's mother, whether in casual chat with friends or more formal introductions. It's the go-to phrase for this specific family relationship.
Alternatives
- mon beau-pèreThis means 'my father-in-law'.
- mes beaux-parentsUse this for 'my parents-in-law' (both mother and father).
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'belle' like 'bell'
The 'e' in 'belle' is not a silent 'l' sound; it's a soft 'uh' sound, similar to the 'u' in 'but'.
Confusing gender
'Belle-mère' is feminine, so always use 'ma' (my) and not 'mon'.
A small cultural note
While 'belle-mère' is standard, some people might use more affectionate or even slightly teasing terms depending on their relationship with their mother-in-law.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
how to say mother in law in french
The most common way to say 'mother-in-law' in French is 'belle-mère'. This term is widely understood across France.
is belle mere formal in french
'Belle-mère' is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and more formal settings. It's the standard, everyday word.
french for father in law
The French term for 'father-in-law' is 'beau-père'. If you're referring to both parents-in-law, you'd say 'beaux-parents'.
