faire la grasse matinée

You use the verb faire (to do/make) followed by the phrase. Because it uses faire, you must conjugate it to match the person. For example, Je fais or Nous faisons. It is a very flexible phrase. You can use it as a noun or a verb. It fits perfectly into conversations about your weekend plans. You will hear it in every French household on a Saturday night.

Use it when discussing your schedule or your habits. It is perfect for small talk with colleagues on a Monday. You can use it when planning a lazy Sunday with a partner. It’s great for bragging to friends about your relaxing vacation. If someone asks why you didn't answer their 10 AM text, this is your perfect excuse. It sounds cozy and relatable to every French person.

Avoid using it if you actually slept poorly or had insomnia. This phrase implies pleasure and relaxation, not exhaustion. Do not use it in a professional meeting to explain why you were late. That would sound very unprofessional! It is also not used for afternoon naps. A nap is une sieste. This phrase is strictly for the transition between night and morning.

The expression dates back to the 16th century. Back then, 'fat' was associated with something rich, soft, and indulgent. In French culture, the Sunday morning ritual is sacred. Many shops close, and the pace of life slows down significantly. La grasse matinée is seen as a right, not a laziness. It is the reward for a long week of hard work. It often ends with a trip to the bakery for fresh croissants.

You might hear people shorten it to just une grasse mat' in very casual settings. For example, J'ai fait une grasse mat' de folie ! (I had an insane lie-in!). Another variation is pioncer, which is slang for sleeping deeply. However, faire la grasse matinée remains the most classic and beloved version. It is a phrase that everyone from a toddler to a grandmother uses and understands.