Haut comme trois pommes
“Haut comme trois pommes” is a French expression meaning “Knee high to a grasshopper,” ie very small, tiny or very young. Literally it means “as tall as three apples.” Its origin is unknown but its meaning is quite clear.
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faire grève
“Faire grève” or “faire la grève” is a French idiom that means “to strike,” or “to go on strike.” This is when workers purposely stop working in their attempt to achieve higher wages and/or better conditions from their employers. The word “grève” in the expression comes from the word for gravel (gravier) which in turn came…
God
Common French Phrases and Expressions Relating to God The French language, deeply influenced by its Christian heritage, is rich in expressions invoking God. These phrases are used both in religious and secular contexts, often expressing gratitude, fear, hope, or uncertainty. Here are some common expressions, their meanings, and their usage. 1. Merci Dieu ! –…
montrer patte blanche
The French idiom “montrer patte blanche” translates literally as “to show white paw.” What it really means is “to prove your identity,” “to present authorisation to enter a place,” or “to be recommendable.” This saying dates back to the time of Jean de La Fontaine. He was a poet and a writer of fables who…
Avoir d’autres chats à fouetter
“Avoir d’autres chats à fouetter” means literally “to have other cats to whip.” But in English, this would translate to “to have other fish to fry” or “to have better/more important things to do.” The origin of this expression is unknown. However other expressions involving whipped cats do exist: “éveillée comme un chat qu’on fouette”…
Brève de comptoir
“Brève de comptoir” means a very short and amusing story, or a story that is typical of a bistrot or cafe conversation. In French, “une brève” is a newsflash or news in brief. “Un comptoir” means a counter, like the top of a bar in a French bistrot or cafe. So a “brève de comptoir”…
mettre en boîte
The French idiom “mettre en boîte” means literally “to put in a can” or “to can.” Figuratively however it means “to make fun of someone,” “to annoy,” “to tease,” or “to kid.” The saying dates back to the end of the 19th century, when “to can” meant “to mock” or “to whistle disapprovingly at.” The…
