french phrases
Common French Phrases Used in English
The language of France and also its food and fashion have always given the English language a new way of expression. Be it new styles of speaking, clothing, or various kinds of delicacies, France has always been the leader.
There has been a strong French influence on the Scandinavian language, and there are evidences for this fact. It is said that the French also provided the English, their "bread" and "butter". This means that they actually imparted these words to the English language. Not only common and everyday words, but also formal words are borrowed by the English language from the French. Given below are some basic French phrases, which are and can be used in English.
Basic Words and Phrases
- "Bon appétit" means ''May you have good appetite'' and also ''enjoy your meal''. It is usually said to wish people to have a good appetite, and it's commonly used in the hotel industry.
- "Enchanté" means "it was a pleasure meeting you."
- "Adieu" means goodbye, and it's frequently used in the Shakespearean plays, though its literal meaning is "to god". It is often confused with "Au revoir", which means that the speaker and the person who are addressed would never meet again. The latter in a way implies death, while the former doesn't.
- "Bonjour" means 'good morning' or 'good day', which depends on the situation, and the time of the day when it's used.
- "Bon voyage" means "have a good and safe trip". It is often used in English before somebody leaves for a long trip.
- "Avant-garde" means something which is radical and very different from a conventional parameter. It is used to refer to an aspect that is new and experimental. It has frequently been used in the field of music, art, and literature. It also means that something is on the edge, which has just undergone a kind of change.
- "Coup de grâce" means a fatal blow, which is inflicted very gracefully by someone. It is also called the blow of mercy.
- "Coup d'état" means a change in the politics of a country. It often refers to the change in the government of a country, which often takes place after a violent phase of affairs.
- "Belle" means a pretty girl or a woman, which is often used by people to address the most beautiful girl in a party or a social gathering.
- "Concordat" refers to an agreement or a pact that is religious in nature, and precisely refers to the accord between the French State and the Judeo-Christian religious sect, according to which the priest and the rabbis were given the status of government servants. Though this pact was nullified, the term still remains in use.
- "Éclat" means excellence in performance, and it mainly refers to success that was not precedent. It also refers to one's excellence in achievement and performance.