What does 'Vive La France' mean?

The phrase "Vive la France" is the ultimate expression of French patriotism.

• Vive: Comes from the French verb vivre, which means "to live."
• La France: Simply means "France."

Literal English Translation: "Long Live France!" or "Hurrah for France!"

It is used in the exact same way Indians shout "Jai Hind!" or Americans say "God Bless America."

1. National Holidays: It is shouted passionately during the massive military parades on 'Bastille Day' (July 14th), which is the French National Day.
2. Sports Victories: When the French national football or rugby team wins a World Cup, millions of fans flood the streets of Paris screaming "Vive la France!"
3. Tragedy and Unity: During times of national tragedy or terrorist attacks (like the 2015 Paris attacks), politicians and citizens use the phrase to show unshakeable unity, strength, and defiance against enemies.

Often, politicians (especially the President of France) will end their official television speeches by combining two phrases: "Vive la République, et vive la France!"

This translates to: "Long live the Republic, and long live France!" It shows respect not just to the land, but to the democratic system of the country.