French Idioms

This week we’ll conclude our journey through idiomatic expressions by examining ten frequently-used French idioms. These basic idiomatic expressions will help you to increase your French comprehension and acceptance by native speakers.

 

If you need more help with idioms, or any other aspect of the French language, contact the Language Island in Atlanta. Our caring, passionate French teachers can create a lesson plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

 

Ce n’est pas la mer à boire

Translation: It’s not like you have to drink the ocean.

Figurative meaning: Something that is not difficult to do.

English equivalent: It’s not rocket science.

 

Couper la poire en deux

Translation: To cut the pear in two.

Figurative meaning: To reach a compromise.

English equivalent: To meet someone halfway.

 

Coûter les yeux de la tête

Translation: To cost the eyes of the head.

Figurative meaning: To be very expensive

English equivalent: To cost an arm and a leg.

 

Étre dans le pétrin

Translation: To be in the kneading trough.

Figurative meaning: To be in serious trouble.

English equivalents: To be up the creek without a paddle.

 

Être soupe au lait

Translation: To be milky soup.

Figurative meaning: To lose your temper easily.

English equivalent: To have a short fuse.

 

Faire la grasse matinee

Translation: To have a fat morning.

Figurative meaning: To wake up later than you normally would.

English equivalent: To sleep in.

 

Pleuvoir des cordes

Translation: To rain ropes.

Figurative meaning: To rain heavily.

English equivalent: To rain cats and dogs.

 

Quand on parle du loup

Translation: Speaking of the wolf…

Figurative meaning: Used when someone you were just talking about shows up.

English equivalent: Speak of the devil…

 

Se mettre le doigt dans l’œil

Translation: To put your finger in your eye.

Figurative meaning: To make a mistake.

English equivalent: To step in it.

 

Se perdre les chèvres

Translation: To lose your goats.

Figurative meaning: To forget what you were going to say.

English equivalents: To lose your place, have your mind go blank, etc.