Asking for Time Off
Use these phrases to request time off, explain your reasons, coordinate work coverage, and call in sick.
Key Phrases
Je peux prendre mon vendredi la semaine prochaine ?
casualCan I take Friday off next week?
A direct way to ask a manager you know well for a single day.
Est-ce que c'est possible de prendre des vacances en juillet ?
politeIs it possible to take vacation in July?
A softer way to ask for time off in a professional setting without using complex grammar.
Je vais déménager dans un nouvel appartement ce mois-ci.
neutralI am going to move into a new apartment this month.
Ma sœur va se marier, donc je dois voyager.
casualMy sister is going to get married, so I have to travel.
J'ai donné tous les documents importants à Marc.
neutralI gave all the important documents to Marc.
Je vais tout finir avant de partir en vacances.
politeI am going to finish everything before going on vacation.
Reassures your manager that your work will be completed.
Est-ce que c'est bon pour le planning de l'équipe ?
neutralIs that okay for the team's schedule?
C'est bon pour toi si je prends ces jours ?
casualIs it okay with you if I take these days?
Very informal; only use this with a manager you have a close relationship with.
Je suis malade ce matin, je ne peux pas venir travailler.
neutralI am sick this morning, I cannot come to work.
The standard, direct way to inform your employer that you are sick.
Je ne vais pas bien aujourd'hui, je vais rester au lit.
casualI am not feeling well today, I am going to stay in bed.
Good for a quick text message to a close colleague or manager.