Every day The Local publishes a French word or phrase of the day, focusing on colloquialisms, slang, sayings (and a bit of swearing) – you know, the type of French you might not learn in the classroom, but will hear all the time in the street. This daily habit means we have a very extensive back catalogue – find it here – and we’ve picked out eight of our recent favourites. Idem – An everyday French word with latin roots that is sometimes shortened to
id, but has nothing to do with identity. Find out more here. Purée – Few French people actually think about mashed potatoes when using this expression that’s as close to swearing in French without actually swearing. We explain. Neuneu – People living in the English county of East Yorkshire may consider this to be French for childminder, but it’s actually slightly insulting. Here’s what you need to know. C’est le pied – Who doesn’t love a bit of pirate slang? This phrase is all to
do with dividing up booty but has come to mean something a bit different, as we reveal here. Second – Knowing how to accurately use this expression – which is almost but not quite exactly the same as ‘deuxième’ will earn you language points even some French people miss out on. Here’s how to score heavily with your French tutor. Nuit blanche – Whether you’re planning a big night or want to complain about being tired, this French expression will come in handy. Vilain –
Even though this French word has many definitions, if someone uses it to describe you, it’s never a good sign. And, no, it doesn’t mean what you think it does. En voiture Simone – Why is ‘get in the car, Simone’ is a perfect summer phrase in France? Find out here.
French words of the day, French slang, colloquialisms, street French, “Idem”, “Purée”, “Neuneu”, “C’est le pied”, “Second”, “Nuit blanche”, “Vilain”, “En voiture Simone”