“Donner un coup de pouce” is a French saying that literally means “to give a push of the thumb.” It really means a rapid and audacious attack, a smart way to proceed, some momentary help, or just help in general.
The origin of this idiom is unknown. Its first date of use is also unknown.
Similar English expressions include “nudge,” “to lend a hand,” and “to give a boost.”
“Finir en queue de poisson” means to end brutally, or to terminate in a disappointing manner, or not to obtain the expected results. It literally means “to end in a fish tail.” Equivalent English expressions would be “to fizzle out” or “to tail off.” The saying dates back to the 1st century BC, to the…
The French verbs “amener,” “apporter,” “emmener” and “emporter” are used to translate the English verbs “to take” and “to bring.” But which one should you use? And what happened to “prendre?” mener Both “amener” and “emmener” are based on the verb “mener,” which means “to lead.” You can lead a person, an animal or a…
Meaning of “Railler” The verb “railler” in French carries the primary meaning of mocking, ridiculing, or making fun of someone or something. When you “railler” someone, you are essentially poking fun at them in a light-hearted or sometimes even sarcastic manner. It’s a verb that conveys a sense of playful teasing, often without malice. Etymology…
The French phrase “il faut” translates to “it is necessary.” It is an impersonal expression, meaning that the “il” does not translate as “he,” but rather as “it.” So it means “it is necessary,” not “he is necessary.” In fact, the French verb “falloir,” which is the infinitive that “il faut” comes from, can only…
The French verbs “se rappeler” and “se souvenir” mean “to remember” or “to recall.” Learn the differences and similarities between the two verbs, as well as how to conjugate them, and their linguistic origins. Meaning and Usage: 1. “Se souvenir de”: 2. “Se rappeler”: Conjugation: Present Tense: Passé Composé: Etymology:
The French word for Christmas is “Noël.” It is a masculine noun, but you don’t have to use the article “le” before it, in most situations. “Christmas time” is “la période de Noël.” If you want to say “at Christmas,” it is simply “à Noël.” To wish someone “Merry Christmas,” you say (or write) “Joyeux…
