Learning French: the origins and meaning of déclarer sa flamme

The French language is often viewed as one of the most romantic in the world.

If you ever hear someone announce a desire to déclarer sa flamme, it means they will be confessing their love.

We look at the fiery origins behind this phrase and explain how you might use it if spending Valentine’s Day in France. 

What does déclarer sa flamme mean?

This romantic saying literally translates as: to declare one’s flame. 

It actually refers to the idea of admitting your true romantic feelings for someone. 

This reference to une flamme is similar to the way in which English speakers might call an ex-lover an ‘old flame’ or describe a positive relationship by saying, ‘sparks were flying.’

Read also: Learning French: the origins and meaning of avoir un cœur d'artichaut

What are the origins of déclarer sa flamme?

This expression dates back to the 17th century, or potentially even earlier, when flamme was used as a figurative way to describe romantic passion. 

The metaphor here compares strong feelings of love to the force of a burning fire.

It also links to similar French expressions:

• Brûler de désir - To burn with desire

• Avoir un coup de foudre - To fall head over heels (like being struck by lightening)

Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say avoir un coup de cœur?

When do you say déclarer sa flamme?

Say this to refer to someone who has declared (or intends to declare) romantic feelings:

• Elle a déclaré sa flamme à mon fils devant toute la famille. - She confessed her feelings for my son in front of the whole family.

• Je vais lui déclarer ma flamme le jour de la Saint-Valentin. - I am going to declare my love for her on Valentine’s Day.

• Je pense que le moment est venu de déclarer ma flamme : je l'avoue, je t'aime depuis l'âge de neuf ans. - I feel that now is the right time to tell you how I feel: I admit it, I have loved you since I was nine years old. 

Read also: Avoir eu chaud and more French phrases with the word ‘hot’

To whom do you say déclarer sa flamme?

It is considered neutral language, however the phrase is not used casually. It carries a lot of ‘weight’ and should only be used if admitting strong feelings for someone.

It can appear in spoken and written French.