je vous en prie

French

French phrasebook

This entry is part of the phrasebook project, which presents criteria for inclusion based on utility, simplicity and commonness.

Etymology

Literally, “I pray you (to do so)”.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ʒə vu.z‿ɑ̃ pʁi/

Phrase

je vous en prie

1. I beg you, I entreat you
2. please do, go ahead, be my guest

   —Puis-je fermer la porte ? —Je vous en prie !

   "Can I close the door?", "Please do!"

3. you're welcome (after being thanked)

Usage notes

• This phrase is more formal than de rien.

Synonyms

• de rien
• je t’en prie (to a person addressed with tu)