Grave, adj : serious, solemn. The French word « grave » looks exactly like the English word “grave.” The problem is that the word “grave” can have a different meaning in English than it does in French. In English, “grave” can mean “a burial place.” It can also mean “serious” or “solemn.” In French, « […]
Oh là là !, interj : Oh my!, Oh my gosh!, Dear me!, Oh dear!, Wow! I’m not sure why “oh là là” has a “sexy” connotation in American English… maybe because it sounds French and it is easy to say? In French, it’s more of an OMG, Oh my, or Wow. It’s an interjection […]
Did you know that France will celebrate Pentecôte (Pentecost) this week on Sunday, June 8 and Monday, June 9? Pentecost is a public holiday in France that takes place 50 days after Easter, commemorating the day the holy spirit descended upon the apostles and caused them to speak in tongues. During Pentecost weekend (celebrated on […]
The Parisian evening. As the workday comes to an end, many Parisians will make their way to a café or small wine bar for an apératif (« un apéro »), which typically includes a glass of wine and a small snack. This time of day is about unwinding. Considering that most cafés are not prepared […]
« Appeler un chat un chat ». Literal translation: To call a cat a cat. Meaning: To call a spade a spade. Il me semble que tu ne me dis pas quelque chose. Appelons un chat un chat, et dis-moi la verité. It seems to me that you are not telling me something. Let’s call […]
Spécial Senior, 15 Jan 2025 Tous les bienfaits d’un animal de compagnie Des études le prouvent : en plus d’être un rempart contre la solitude, posséder un animal rend plus heureux et maintient en bonne santé. Chat, chien, hamster, perroquet ou poisson rouge : avoir un animal fait du bien à la tête comme au […]
Caméra, nf : a movie camera, a video camera. The French word « caméra » looks almost the same as the English word “camera.” The most common meaning of “camera” in English is “a photographic device to take individual photos;” however, currently in English, “camera” can also mean “video camera.” The French word « caméra […]
Encourager, vtr : to encourage, to support, to cheer on, to urge, to promote, to give courage to, to uplift, to nurture. C’est mon frère qui m’a encouragé à suivre mes rêves. It was my brother who encouraged me to follow my dreams. J’encouragerais toujours n’importe qui envisageant d’apprendre une nouvelle langue ; c’est très […]
Did you know that France observes it’s third and final May public holiday this week? Thursday, May 29th is Jeudi de l’Ascension or Ascension Day, celebrating Christ’s ascension into heaven 40 days after Easter. It always takes place on a Thursday, but the date will vary based on the calendar each year. Many businesses also […]
The Parisian afternoon: Nearing 12:30, Parisians take time away from work to enjoy a midday dining adventure. There are so many international cuisine choices to choose from, not to mention the abundance of marchés where a quick « jambon-beurre » (ham and butter baguette) can be picked up and enjoyed in one of the many […]
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