-
Why 'knowledge is power' and 'France (really) is bacon'
An amusing misheard phrase sparks the exploration of historical and cultural links between France and bacon
-
Learning French: when and why do we say fais gaffe?
Understand the difference between 'fais gaffe,' 'faire une gaffe,' and 'gaffer'
-
Learning French: the origins and meaning of avoir un cœur d'artichaut
A peculiar yet poetic phrase to describe hopeless romantics
Hyphens, no hyphens: what is correct spelling of French commune names?
The Association des Maires de France explains the official rules

Reader question: I sometimes see names of communes written with hyphens and sometimes without. What is correct? J.A.
The Association des Maires de France states that the official rules say when the name of a commune, or other local authority, is composed of several words, they should all be connected by hyphens. So, for example: Saint-Germain-en-Laye. One exception is the definite article at the start of a name, eg. Le Mans. There is also no hyphen after contractions such as d’ and l’.
The rule helps make it clear the name relates to an administrative area and nothing else. The association regrets, however, that some new communes get this wrong when registering their names.
Words must also be capitalised, apart from articles inside the name, and prepositions.
Related stories:
Why are private school fees in France usually cheaper than the UK?
French inheritance law: Can I override en tontine clause on my house?
Can I destroy my old will now I have a French one that elects UK law?