A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "They're like family" in French
Expresses a very close bond, treating people as if they were relatives.
Ils sont comme de la famille.
eel sohn kom duh lah fah-MEE-yuhneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when you feel a deep connection with a group of people, like close friends or colleagues you've worked with for a long time. It conveys that they are more than just acquaintances; they hold a special, familial place in your life.
Alternatives
- On est comme une famille.Use when the speaker is part of the group being described.
- Ils font partie de la famille.Slightly more formal, emphasizing inclusion in the family unit.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'ils' like 'ills'
The 's' in 'ils' is silent; it sounds like 'eel'.
Forgetting 'de la'
You need 'de la' before 'famille' to mean 'like family'; 'comme famille' is incorrect.
A small cultural note
French culture often emphasizes strong social bonds, and this phrase reflects the deep affection and loyalty that can develop within close-knit groups.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to say 'they are like family' in French?
The most common way is 'Ils sont comme de la famille.' This conveys a strong sense of belonging and affection.
Is 'Ils sont comme ma famille' correct?
While understandable, 'Ils sont comme de la famille' is more idiomatic. 'Ma famille' implies they are literally your family, which might be too strong.
When would I use 'On est comme une famille'?
Use 'On est comme une famille' when you are part of the group you are describing. It means 'We are like a family.'
