Une bête de somme means a workhorse or a beast of burden. Back in the 12th century, “une somme” meant the load that a horse or a mule could carry. Then, in the 16th century, the term “bête de somme” arrived. These days, the more common word for burden is “un fardeau,” but the term “bête de somme” survives in its original form.
The French saying “le repos du guerrier” translates literally to mean “the rest of the warrior.” Figuratively, however, it refers to a man’s procreative activities with a woman, or to coital activity in general, or to bedroom pleasures. It refers to the situation of a warrior who comes back from fighting in a war, to…
“Faire vinaigre” means literally to “make vinegar.” What could “make vinegar” possibly mean? It means to hurry up, to go faster. It’s also used by kids playing jump rope to indicate that they want the rope holders to turn the rope faster. The jump rope usage gives a clue as to the origin of this…
Almost everyone knows that the French word “merci” means “thank you.” But how do you express the idea of mercy or compassion in French, rather than thanking someone? “Merci” is a feminine noun. “La merci” means “the mercy.” It refers to mercy in the sense of power, not in the sense of compassion. “Pitié” is…
The second most frequently used verb in French is “avoir,” which means “to have.” It can also be used to talk about how old someone is. “Avoir” is an essential verb to know. “Avoir” is also used to express age. For instance:
The word “la mouche” means “the fly” in French. Here is a summary of French idiomatic expressions that use “mouche.” Faire mouche Literal meaning: To hit the flyFigurative meaning: To hit the target exactly; to be spot onOrigin: From archery or shooting. La mouche was the black center of the target.Example: Son commentaire a fait…
How do you translate “to save” into French? It depends on what you’re saving. If you’re saving someone in the sense of rescuing them, use “sauver.” If you’re saving money by spending less, use “économiser.” If you’re saving money by putting money aside, then use “épargner.” If you’re saving time, use “gagner.” If you’re saving…