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rigolo

ByFast French

The French word “rigolo” can be either an adjective (meaning “funny”) or a noun (meaning “a funny person”).

The Adjective “Rigolo”:

  • The primary meaning of “rigolo” is “amusing” or “funny.”
    • C’est une histoire rigolote. (It’s a funny story.)
    • Les enfants adorent les jouets rigolos. (Children love funny toys.)

Masculine and Feminine Forms:

The masculine singular adjective “rigolo” becomes “rigolote” in the feminine singular in French.

  • Masculine: rigolo
  • Feminine: rigolote
  • Examples:
    • C’est un film rigolo. (It’s a funny movie.)
    • C’est une blague rigolote. (It’s a funny joke.)

Etymology:

The word “rigolo” comes from the verb “rigoler,” which means “to laugh” or “to have a good time.” The earliest recorded usage of “rigolo” only dates back to 1848, so it is a relatively recent word. However, the verb “rigoler” has its own origins in the late 13th century.

The “Rigolo” Noun:

1. A Funny Person:

  • As a noun, “rigolo” refers to a person who is funny or amusing. “Un rigolo” is a funny male person and “une rigolote” is a funny female person.
    • Il est un vrai rigolo, toujours en train de faire des blagues. (He’s a real funny guy, always making jokes.)

2. An Amusing Thing or Situation:

  • Beyond describing people, “rigolo” can also be used to characterize an object, event, or situation that is amusing or entertaining.
    • Le spectacle était un vrai rigolo. (The show was a real hoot.)

Masculine and Feminine Forms:

Just like the adjective, the noun follows the standard pattern for forming feminine forms in French.

  • Masculine Noun: rigolo
  • Feminine Noun: rigolote
  • Examples:
    • Il est un rigolo. (He is a funny guy.)
    • Elle est une rigolote. (She is a funny girl.)

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