French idiomatic expressions are phrases whose meanings cannot be deduced from the literal definitions of their individual words. They add color and cultural depth to the language, making communication more natural and expressive.
- French idioms often reflect history, culture, and everyday life.
- They are essential for understanding native speakers and for sounding fluent.
- Learning idioms improves listening, speaking, and cultural comprehension.
An idiomatic expression is a phrase whose meaning cannot be understood from the literal definitions of its individual words.
Idiomatic expressions help you understand native speakers and express ideas more naturally.
Common Phrases and Their Meanings
『Être aux anges』means 'to be very happy' in French.
'Donner sa langue au chat' means to give up guessing.
『Être comme les doigts de la main』describes people who are very close.
A1 French Idiomatic Expressions List
| French Expression | Literal Translation | Meaning in English |
|---|---|---|
| Avoir faim | To have hunger | To be hungry |
| Être aux anges | To be with the angels | To be very happy |
| Donner sa langue au chat | To give one's tongue to the cat | To give up (on guessing) |
| Avoir le cafard | To have the cockroach | To feel down (blue) |
| Coûter les yeux de la tête | To cost the eyes from the head | To cost an arm and a leg |
| Faire la grasse matinée | To do the fat morning | To sleep in |
| Mettre son grain de sel | To put in one's grain of salt | To give an unsolicited opinion |
| Avoir la tête dans les nuages | To have one's head in the clouds | To be daydreaming |
| Être comme les doigts de la main | To be like the fingers of the hand | To be very close |
| Poser un lapin | To put down a rabbit | To stand someone up (for a date) |
'Avoir le cafard' means to feel down or blue.
If something 'coûte les yeux de la tête,' it costs an arm and a leg.
'Poser un lapin' means to stand someone up.
Conclusion
French idiomatic expressions are more than just phrases; they are a glimpse into the culture and soul of the language, making your communication richer and more authentic.
- They reveal cultural nuances and shared values.
- Mastering idioms boosts comprehension and expression.
- Learning idioms is essential for fluency and deeper connection.