Learning French: when and why do we say chaque chose en son temps

Do you ever feel as though you are juggling too many responsibilities or getting too far ahead of yourself?

The expression, chaque chose en son temps, acts as a reminder to stop being in such a hurry and to start taking things as they come.

We look at how you can use this saying in everyday French and suggest some more motivational synonyms.

What does chaque chose en son temps mean?

It literally translates as, ‘each thing in its own time’ and is similar to the English phrase: all in good time.

Chaque chose en son temps, is often used to imply that someone is trying to do too much at once, and they should slow down and just tackle one task at a time.

It can also refer to the idea of focusing on the present moment rather than always thinking of the future.

You might even use this as a daily reminder to encourage mindfulness or to help cope with anxious feelings.

Similar phrases include:

• Un jour à la fois - One day at a time

• Etape par étape - Take things step by step

• Voir le moment venu - Cross that bridge when you come to it

Read also: Learning French: what does ça va aller mean and when should it be used?

When do you say chaque chose en son temps?

Say this when encouraging people to take their time:

• Question: Après le cinéma, on peut manger une glace et puis aller au parc ? - After the cinema, can we get ice cream and then go to the park?

• Response: Woah, chaque chose en son temps. - Woah, don’t get ahead of yourself.

It can also be reassuring for someone who is stressed about the future:

• Statement: Je viens d'obtenir mon visa, mais je ne sais toujours pas où je vais habiter ni si je vais me faire des amis… - I just got my visa but I still don't know where I am going to live or if I will make any friends…

• Response: Essayer de ne pas s'inquiéter, chaque chose en son temps. - Try not to worry, we will cross that bridge when we come to it.

You can even say this if someone tries to give you too many tasks or responsibilities:

• Je le ferai une fois que j'aurai terminé les autres tâches sur ma liste. Je n’ai pas huit bras. Chaque chose en son temps. - I will get to it once I have finished everything else on my to-do list. I do not have eight arms. One thing at a time.

Read also: Six idioms to spice up your French conversations

To whom do you say chaque chose en son temps?

It is considered neutral language that can be used in a wide range of situations - with friends and family, or colleagues and strangers.

It can be written down and said out loud.

Do not hesitate to say this to someone as a gentle reminder to take a breath. It should not cause any serious offence.

Read also: Learning French: what are the origins of au fur et à mesure and what does it mean?