how to say ps in french
In written communication, the abbreviation ps (short for “post‑scriptum”) is a handy way to add a brief remark after the main body of a letter or email. If you are wondering how to say ps in french, the answer is straightforward: French uses the same abbreviation **P.Consider this: s. ** (with capital letters and periods) or writes out the full term post‑scriptum. Both forms are widely understood and accepted in French‑language correspondence.
What Does “ps” Mean?
The Origin of the Abbreviation
The word ps comes from the Latin term post‑scriptum, which literally means “after the writing”. When scholars began adding a short note at the end of a manuscript, they used the abbreviation ps to signal that the following text was an extra remark, not part of the original message. That's why in classical Latin, post = “after” and scriptum = “written”. The practice migrated into modern languages, including French, where it retains the same function.
French Equivalents
In French, the abbreviation is written P. (capital “P” and “S” with periods). S.In practice, you may also see the full expression post‑scriptum or the shortened post‑script. The meaning is identical to its English counterpart: a supplemental comment placed after the signature line Practical, not theoretical..
Key point: P.S. is the standard French way to write “ps”, and it is pronounced “pee‑ess” just like in English The details matter here..
How to Write “ps” in French
P.S. – The Conventional Form
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Structure: Place P.S. on a new line after your closing (e.g., “Cordialement”) and before your name or any post‑script separator Which is the point..
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Example:
Cordialement, Jean Dupont P.S. N’oubliez pas de vérifier la date.
Post‑Scriptum – The Full Term
If you prefer to avoid the abbreviation, you can write the entire phrase post‑scriptum (italicized as a foreign term). This is more formal and occasionally used in literary or academic texts.
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Example:
Je vous remercie de votre attention. *post‑scriptum* : Merci de confirmer votre présence.
Pronunciation
- P.S. → “pee‑ess” (the same as English).
- post‑scriptum → “po‑st‑ee‑sky‑tum”.
Italic formatting is used for the foreign term post‑scriptum to indicate its Latin origin.
When to Use “ps” in French Correspondence
- Adding a last‑minute detail – e.g., a reminder about a meeting time.
- Clarifying a point – a brief correction or补充 that does not fit naturally in the main text.
- Sharing a personal note – a friendly comment, a joke, or a post‑script greeting.
Do not insert a ps in the middle of a paragraph; it should always appear after the main body and before the final sign‑off.
Common Mistakes
- Using lowercase “ps” – While some informal texts may accept “ps”, the conventional French style prefers capital letters P.S.
- Confusing with “post‑script” – In French, “post‑script” is not a standard term; stick to P.S. or post‑scriptum.
- Placing it before the signature – The ps belongs after the closing line, not before your name.
FAQ
Q1: Can I write “ps” without periods?
A: In very informal digital messages (SMS, chat), you might see “ps” without punctuation, but in formal letters the periods are recommended.
Q2: Is “post‑scriptum” ever used in spoken French?
A: Rarely. When speaking, French speakers usually say “post‑scriptum” or simply “P.S.”; they do not translate it into a French phrase.
Q3: Does the placement of “P.S.” change in email vs. handwritten letters?
A: No. The rule remains the same: after the closing and before your name or any additional separator.
Q4: Are there any regional variations?
A: French‑speaking regions (France, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland)
In the francophone world, the visual presentation of the post‑script can differ slightly from one locale to another. In France, the capitalised “P.S.” with periods remains the norm in both printed correspondence and electronic messages. Canadian French, especially in Quebec, often mirrors this convention, though some professionals opt for a simpler “P.Now, s” without the final dot when the tone is casual. Because of that, in Belgium and Switzerland, the same capitalised form is used, but you will occasionally see a thin space inserted before the period (e. g., “P.S. ”) to improve typographic harmony.
Digital platforms introduce a few additional habits. Because of that, in instant‑messaging apps, the abbreviation may appear without periods or even in lowercase (“ps”), reflecting the speed of the medium. Nonetheless, when a message is forwarded to a formal inbox, it is advisable to revert to the standard “P.S.” to preserve professionalism Turns out it matters..
Beyond typography, the content of a post‑script often follows recognizable patterns. Day to day, in business letters, a ps frequently contains logistical reminders — such as the need to send a document before a deadline or to confirm receipt of an attachment. In personal letters, it may convey a light‑hearted comment, a reference to a shared memory, or a gentle nudge (“ps : I’ll bring the dessert on Saturday”).
When drafting a ps, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Length – Aim for a single sentence or two; the purpose is to add a brief aside, not to rewrite the main text.
- Timing – Insert it after the closing line and before your name, ensuring it does not disrupt the flow of the signature block.
- Tone – Match the overall mood of the letter; a formal document calls for a concise, matter‑of‑fact note, while a friendly note can be more playful.
The short version: the French “ps” functions as a compact, post‑closing device that conveys last‑minute information, clarifications, or personal touches. Whether written as “P.Day to day, s. ” or the fuller post‑scriptum, its placement, capitalization, and brevity are the hallmarks of polished French correspondence. By adhering to the conventions outlined above, writers can easily integrate this useful element into any type of letter, email, or digital message.
