manger sur le pouce

ByFast French

The French saying “manger sur le pouce” translates literally as “to eat on the thumb.” Figuratively, however, it means “to eat quickly,” “to eat rapidly,” or “to eat hastily.”

It dates back to the 19th century. People like factory workers and soldiers often ate on the spot, with one hand holding a piece of bread and the other hand holding a knife to cut some other food. The eater would put the small piece of food on his thumb and bring his thumb to his mouth to eat the food.

Similar English expressions include “to grab a bite” and “to eat on the run.”

Don’t miss new articles!

Get 1 email a week with new articles about French

We don’t spam! Read more in our privacy policy

Similar Posts

  • Parler français comme une vache espagnole

    ByFast French

    “Parler français comme une vache espagnole” means to speak French with difficulty, to speak French very badly, or just to speak any language badly. But it literally means “to speak French like a Spanish cow!” How did this phrase, which is insulting to both Spaniards and to cows, come about? The saying dates back to…

  • faire une frite

    ByFast French

    The French expression “faire une frite” literally means “to make a fry” or “to make a French fry.” However it has nothing to do with cooking. Instead it means to use the backs of your fingers to whip someone’s bottom in a downwards direction. This action, often done by kids teasing each other, will leave…

  • Possessive pronouns

    ByFast French

    Possessive pronouns replace nouns and show ownership or possession. They agree in gender and number with the nouns they replace. In English, they are “mine,” “yours,” “his,” “hers,” “ours,” and “theirs.” Here’s a comprehensive table listing the French possessive pronouns: Possessor Singular Plural 1st person le mien (mine) les miens (mine) la mienne (mine) les…

  • | | |

    verb: s’attendre à

    ByFast French

    The French verb “s’attendre à” means “to expect” or “to anticipate.” “S’attendre à” vs. “Attendre” The primary difference between “s’attendre à” and “attendre” is that “s’attendre à” is reflexive (or “pronominal” as we say in French) and “attendre” is not. While “attendre” means “to wait for” or “to await,” “s’attendre à” means “to expect” or…

  • God

    ByFast French

    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 ! –…