French idiomatic expressions can be hard to understand (as opposed to the expression “C’est la vie”), and French people love to use them all the time.
French idiomatic expressions are an essential aspect of the French language and its culture. Learning French expressions will help you to understand better French movies or French music.
These expressions, also known as “les expressions idiomatiques,” are phrases that carry a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning. They are used in everyday conversations and add flavor to the language.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner of French, understanding and using idiomatic expressions can greatly enhance your communication skills and help you sound more like a native speaker. From “être dans la lune” to “quand les poules auront des dents” French idiomatic expressions are fascinating, amusing, and key to French language learning.
Some of those French idioms are quite old, but they are still popular in French society.
Key points to remember:
- French idiomatic expressions enrich language and culture; examples include “Quand les poules auront des dents” (never happen) and “C’est la douche froide” (cold shower).
- Understanding idioms enhances communication skills and cultural appreciation.
- Expanding vocabulary with idioms helps learners sound more native.
- Quand les poules auront des dents
Literally: When the chickens will have teeth
It is used to say that something will never ever happen. This French idiomatic expression “Quand les poules auront des dents” is from the end of the 18th century. A synonym for this French idiom would be “À la Saint-Glinglin”. The equivalent in English would be “When pigs fly” which is a funny expression too.
Example
Maman, je veux un nouvel ordinateur.
Bien sûr, quand les poulets auront des dents
Mom, I want a new computer.
For sure, when pigs fly.
source: https://french-iceberg.com/french-idiomatic-expressions/
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