15 giggle worthy French idioms to Enhance your repertoire!

Introduction to French Idioms

As you learn French, you will come across a lot of fun French idioms that can make your conversations more lively and entertaining. While some may be hard to remember, the 15 giggle-worthy French idioms listed in this article are sure to stick in your memory and bring a smile to your face every time you use them. From “avoir un chat dans la gorge” to “porter un costume trois pièces”, these idioms will add a humorous twist to any conversation and make you sound like a native speaker!

French Idioms and Their Meanings

I’ve always been fascinated by the power of language. As a child, I was particularly taken with idioms — phrases that have figurative rather than literal meanings. They often contain wisdom or advice and can be used to express complex ideas in just one or two sentences.

My first introduction to French idioms was when my teachers taught me interesting phrases at the language school. Some were funny while others were wise, but all of them provided valuable insight into the culture and language of France.

As I continue to explore the interesting and complex world of idioms, I’m looking forward to uncovering more hidden meanings and stories within them. Who knows what insights I’ll find next? Stay tuned as I unravel the mystery behind the first idiom “Avoir un chat dans la gorge”!

Idiom 1 – Avoir un chat dans la gorge

When I first heard the idiom “Avoir un chat dans la gorge,” I was immediately intrigued. This phrase, which literally translates to “having a cat in your throat,” is used to describe someone who has difficulty speaking due to nervousness or anxiety. As someone who has struggled with public speaking since childhood, this phrase resonated with me deeply.

Idiom 2 – Avoir la tête dans les nuages

When I first heard the phrase “Avoir la tête dans les nuages,” I immediately thought of my own daydreaming habit. This French idiom, which translates to “having your head in the clouds,” is often used to describe someone who is forgetful or overly dreamy.

As a creative person, I am no stranger to this feeling. My mind is constantly full of ideas, and sometimes it can be hard for me to focus on anything else or remember mundane tasks like grocery shopping or doing laundry. My friends have even joked that they can always tell when I’m lost in my own world because my eyes glaze over and I start talking about things that don’t make sense!

Idiom 3 – Il ne faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir tué

When I first heard the French idiom “Il ne faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir tué,” which translates to “Don’t sell the bear’s skin before you have killed it,” I had no idea what it meant. After doing some research, however, I quickly realized that this idiom is a warning against being too eager or making promises that you may not be able to keep.

I think this idiom is particularly relevant in my life because I often get so excited about a project or opportunity that I start talking about all of the amazing possibilities without really taking into account how much work and effort will be involved in actually achieving them. This can lead me to make huge promises that are difficult to keep or even impossible.

Idiom 4 – Faire une pierre, deux coups

I recently learned the French idiom “Faire une pierre, deux coups,” which translates to “Kill two birds with one stone.” This phrase couldn’t be more relevant to my life as I’m constantly looking for ways to save time and energy.

For instance, when I’m out running errands, I try to look for opportunities to accomplish multiple tasks in one go. Instead of making separate trips to different stores, for example, I’ll try and find a store that has everything I need. Or rather than cooking something separate for each meal, I’ll make meals that can be used in multiple ways.

Idiom 5 – Ne pas y voir que du feu

I recently learned the French idiom “Ne pas y voir que du feu”, which translates to “not to see only fire”. This expression is incredibly useful for when I’m in a situation that requires me to put my emotions aside and remain level-headed.

For instance, when I’m in a heated argument with someone, this phrase helps me step back and look at things objectively. By taking a moment to think before I react, I’m able to assess the situation more clearly and make better decisions. This can range from simply responding more calmly or even deciding not to respond at all if it would be best for the overall outcome.

Idiom 6 – Manger sur le pouce

I love to use the French idiom “Manger sur le pouce” when talking about eating on the go. This phrase translates to “eating on the thumb” and is often used to describe snacking or grabbing a quick bite to eat.

This expression is also great for when I’m traveling and need something quick and easy before hopping on my next train. Whether it’s stopping at a café for an espresso and croissant or picking up some pastries at the market, this phrase helps me sum up my rushed experience in one neat package.

Idiom 7 – Prendre ses jambes à son cou

I love the French idiom “Prendre ses jambes à son cou,” which translates to “take your legs to your neck.” This phrase is often used when someone is running away from a situation as quickly as possible.

Recently, I was walking down the street after dark and heard someone following me. Without thinking too much about it, I started sprinting away and this idiom popped into my head. When I told my friends about what happened later, they were all cracking up at my explanation because of its humorous nature.

Idiom 8 – Pousser comme des champignons

I recently had the pleasure of learning the idiom “Pousser comme des champignons,” which translates to “to grow like mushrooms.” You can use this expression to describe something that is growing rapidly.

When I heard it for the first time, I was immediately taken aback by its aptness in describing a rapidly increasing trend. For example, when talking about my Instagram followers, I could say “ils poussent comme des champignons!” (they’re growing like mushrooms!). I found this idiom so useful that I started using it in casual conversation with friends and family.

Idiom 9 – C’est du gâteau !

One of my favorite French idioms! C’est du gâteau! is an idiom that I learned recently, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite French expressions. It translates to “it’s a piece of cake!” and is used when something is very easy or straightforward to do.

I first heard this phrase when talking with a friend about how to make crepes for breakfast. After she told me the recipe, I said “c’est du gâteau!”. Because even though I had never made crêpes before, her instructions were so simple and easy to follow!

Idiom 10 – Porter un costume trois pièces

I recently had the chance to experience the French idiom “porter un costume trois pièces” firsthand. This phrase translates literally to “to wear a three-piece suit.” You can refer to someone who is dressed very formally, typically for a special occasion.

At first I was a bit intimidated by the thought of wearing such an outfit. I’m not necessarily one for dressing up on a regular basis. But when I finally put it on, I felt like a million bucks.

Idiom 11 – Tomber des nues

I recently encountered the French idiom “tomber des nues,” which translates literally to “to fall from the skies.” This phrase is used to describe the feeling of shock and surprise one has when confronted with something unexpected.

Idiom 12 – Se prendre les pieds dans le tapis

I recently encountered the French idiom “se prendre les pieds dans le tapis.” It literally translates to “to get one’s feet caught in the carpet.” This phrase is used to describe a situation in which someone makes a mistake that leaves them embarrassed and vulnerable.

The first time I experienced this particular idiom was when I accidentally posted an embarrassing photo of myself on social media. The feeling of getting my feet caught in the carpet was immediate, as I was overcome with embarrassment and regret.

Idiom 13 – Voilà qui est fait !

I recently encountered the French idiom “Voilà qui est fait!” which literally translates to “It is done!”

This particular idiom tickled my fancy when I was studying for my French final exam. I had spent weeks preparing, and as I finished the last question, I felt a sense of accomplishment. It was almost like something clicked inside me and I just knew that, finally, everything was done.

Idiom 14 – Faire la tête de six pieds de long

“Faire la tête de six pieds de long” literally translates to “to make a face six feet long.” It’s very useful to describe someone who is sulking or looking very unhappy.

I encountered this particular idiom for the first time when I was visiting my host family in France. We were having dinner together and my brother was being particularly difficult and uncooperative throughout the meal. He had a sour expression on his face that made it clear he wasn’t enjoying himself. So the host mother just sighed and said “Il fait la tête de six pieds de long!”

Idiom 15- Avoir le cafard

The last but not the least idiom sounds so different from its meaning that I find super funny. The idiom “avoir le cafard” which litterally mans to have the cockroach translates to “to have the blues”:D:D. We use this expression when someone is feeling down. Oh and it fit perfectly with what I was trying to say in my conversation.

Conclusion

With the help of these, I felt more confident in my ability to communicate with others in French. Not only did I get some laughs out of it, but I also gained an appreciation for the unique expressions. It is truly amazing how powerful and expressive a few simple words can be! Hope you enjoyed this list of French idioms!

Interested in learning more?? Then have a look at this fantastic list! You can also check out our blog on 20 VERLAN TO MAKE YOU A TRUE FRENCH SPEAKER!

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