“Rien qu’a r vi”: the Norman reply that makes no commitments

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“Rien qu’a r vi” is a Norman way of saying that one does not want to answer yes or no right away. Its real meaning is simple: maybe, we’ll see, why not—but without making a promise. In everyday French, it can be translated as “maybe,” “we’ll see,” or “we’ll have to see,” depending on the context. It is used as a cautious reply, often when one is waiting to find out a little more before committing oneself. For example: “Are you coming tonight? — Rien qu’a r vi.” Or: “Shall we go for a walk if it doesn’t rain? — Rien qu’a r vi.” It is handy for keeping one’s options open, without saying no or yes—in short, with the local talent for leaving the door ajar. Its origin lies in a well-known feature of Norman speech: not making a decision too quickly and keeping some room to manoeuvre. It is a small everyday phrase, typical of a calm, clever tone, that neatly sums up the local art of deciding… later. Selected type: Translations.

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Where: Normandie

URL : https://fr.wiktionary.org/wiki/p%27t%C3%AAt_ben_qu%27oui