Literal translation
to the year that is coming
Meaning
best wishes for the coming year
Explanation
This wish formula hopes for a good year for the one ahead. L'an (the year) que vèn (that is coming, from veni, to come, to become, or to sprout for plants) simply names the coming year, with no further image : the literal and figurative senses almost entirely coincide, the only difference being that the phrase, used alone, implies a wish for happiness and prosperity that is not stated outright. The expression is most often quoted in its full form, à l'an que vèn, traditionally followed by a mention of what one wishes for the year ahead, such as more health or happiness for everyone. Its register is that of New Year's wishes, used in toasts, cards, and end-of-year exchanges, with the simplicity and warmth typical of ritual formulas repeated every year without growing stale. Its very brevity makes it an easy phrase to offer on any year-end occasion, spoken aloud in a convivial, family setting.