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THE INKLINGO LANGUAGE GUIDES

90 French Idioms & Proverbs (Meanings + Audio)

Explore 80 French idioms and 10 traditional proverbs with literal translations, natural English meanings and original example sentences. Begin with the essential 20, then choose a theme that matches the conversation you want to have.

90 entries · Updated

An open illustrated book beside a small listening ear ornament and a fountain pen

Essential 20

  1. Tomber dans les pommesTo pass out
  2. Donner sa langue au chatTo give up guessing
  3. Coûter les yeux de la têteTo cost an arm and a leg
  4. Poser un lapin à quelqu’unTo stand someone up
  5. Avoir d’autres chats à fouetterTo have other fish to fry
  6. Mettre son grain de selTo put your two cents in
  7. Manger sur le pouceTo grab a quick bite
  8. Faire la grasse matinéeTo have a lie-in
  9. Avoir un coup de foudreTo fall in love at first sight
  10. Faire la têteTo sulk
  11. En faire tout un fromageTo make a big deal of it
  12. Couper la poire en deuxTo meet halfway
  13. Raconter des saladesTo spin a yarn
  14. Prendre ses jambes à son couTo take to your heels
  15. Chercher la petite bêteTo nitpick
  16. Avoir les yeux plus gros que le ventreTo have eyes bigger than your stomach
  17. Être aux angesTo be over the moon
  18. Pleuvoir des cordesTo rain cats and dogs
  19. Être dans le pétrinTo be in a pickle
  20. Prendre au pied de la lettreTo take literally

20 essential French idioms

Start with these versatile expressions. Read the literal image, then use the example to hear the intended meaning.

An open blank notebook with a small selection of colorful bookmarks, representing useful French expressions
1

Tomber dans les

To pass out

Literally: To fall into the apples

Meaning: To faint or lose consciousness.

Closest English expression: To pass out

Informal; use literal medical wording when precision matters. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Elle a failli tomber dans les pommes dans la .
She nearly fainted in the heat.
A person falling among apples.Source note
2

Donner sa langue au

To give up guessing

Literally: To give your tongue to the cat

Meaning: To stop trying to guess an answer and ask to be told.

Closest English expression: To give up guessing

Conversational; particularly riddles and guessing games. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Je ne trouve pas la , je donne ma langue au chat.
I can’t find the answer; I give up guessing.
A playful scene of a tongue offered to a cat.Source note
3

Coûter les de la

To cost an arm and a leg

Literally: To cost the eyes from your head

Meaning: To be very expensive relative to what you can pay.

Closest English expression: To cost an arm and a leg

Conversational exaggeration. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ce coûte les yeux de la tête.
This ticket costs an arm and a leg.
A playful scene linking a pair of eyes with an extravagant price.Source note
4

un lapin à quelqu’un

To stand someone up

Literally: To put a rabbit to someone

Meaning: To fail to attend an arranged meeting without warning the person waiting.

Closest English expression: To stand someone up

Informal; meetings as well as dates. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai une heure : il m’a posé un lapin.
I waited an hour; he stood me up.
A rabbit in a playful scene about a missed appointment.Source note
5

Avoir d’autres chats à fouetter

To have other fish to fry

Literally: To have other cats to whip

Meaning: To have other matters that deserve your attention more.

Closest English expression: To have other fish to fry

Conversational; can sound dismissive. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Je ne peux pas de ça, j’ai d’autres chats à fouetter.
I can’t discuss that; I have other fish to fry.
Cats in a playful scene about having other things to do.Source note
6

Mettre son grain de

To put your two cents in

Literally: To add your grain of salt

Meaning: To add an opinion, especially without being asked.

Closest English expression: To put your two cents in

Conversational; often mildly critical. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il met toujours son grain de sel dans nos discussions.
He always puts his two cents into our discussions.
A small grain of salt being added.Source note
7

Manger sur le

To grab a quick bite

Literally: To eat on the thumb

Meaning: To have a quick meal with little time or ceremony.

Closest English expression: To grab a quick bite

Conversational; not a type of food. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

À , je mange sur le pouce avant mon .
At noon I grab a quick bite before class.
A tiny meal balanced on a thumb.Source note
8

Faire la grasse

To have a lie-in

Literally: To do the fat morning

Meaning: To stay in bed later than usual in the morning.

Closest English expression: To have a lie-in

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

, nous faire la grasse matinée.
On Sunday we’re going to have a lie-in.
An adult sleeping under a blanket as morning sunlight reaches the pillow.Source note
9

Avoir un coup de foudre

To fall in love at first sight

Literally: To have a lightning strike

Meaning: To feel an immediate, powerful attraction to a person or thing.

Closest English expression: To fall in love at first sight

Conversational; pour introduces the object of attraction. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai eu un coup de foudre pour cette .
I fell in love with this house at first sight.
A sudden lightning strike.Source note
10

la tête

To sulk

Literally: To make the head

Meaning: To show displeasure by sulking or looking unhappy.

Closest English expression: To sulk

Conversational; direct questions can sound reproachful. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Pourquoi tu la depuis ce ?
Why have you been sulking since this morning?
A face expressing displeasure.Source note
11

En faire tout un

To make a big deal of it

Literally: To make a whole cheese of it

Meaning: To make more fuss about a matter than it deserves.

Closest English expression: To make a big deal of it

Informal; en refers back to the issue. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ce n’est une erreur, n’en pas tout un fromage.
It’s only a mistake; don’t make a big deal of it.
A large cheese representing a small matter made excessive.Source note
12

la poire en

To meet halfway

Literally: To cut the pear in two

Meaning: To reach a compromise between two positions.

Closest English expression: To meet halfway

Conversational; often negotiation. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Tu proposes , moi : coupons la poire en deux.
You suggest twenty, I suggest thirty; let’s meet halfway.
A pear cut into two pieces.Source note
13

Raconter des salades

To spin a yarn

Literally: To tell salads

Meaning: To tell lies or an invented account.

Closest English expression: To spin a yarn

Informal and accusatory. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Arrête de raconter des salades, je la .
Stop spinning stories; I know the truth.
Salads in a playful scene about telling tall tales.Source note
14

Prendre ses à son

To take to your heels

Literally: To take your legs to your neck

Meaning: To run away very quickly.

Closest English expression: To take to your heels

Conversational; often vivid storytelling. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

l’orage a éclaté, nous avons pris nos jambes à notre cou.
When the storm broke, we took to our heels.
A playful scene of legs lifted toward a neck.Source note
15

la petite bête

To nitpick

Literally: To look for the little creature

Meaning: To hunt for insignificant faults or unnecessary complications.

Closest English expression: To nitpick

Conversational; critical of excessive scrutiny. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le texte est clair, inutile de chercher la petite bête.
The text is clear; there’s no need to nitpick.
A search for a tiny creature.Source note
16

Avoir les plus gros que le ventre

To have eyes bigger than your stomach

Literally: To have eyes bigger than the stomach

Meaning: To take more food than you can actually eat.

Closest English expression: To have eyes bigger than your stomach

Conversational; can extend to overambitious appetites. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai commandé : j’avais les plus gros que le ventre.
I ordered too much; my eyes were bigger than my stomach.
Oversized eyes beside a smaller stomach.Source note
17

Être aux anges

To be over the moon

Literally: To be among the angels

Meaning: To be delighted or extremely happy.

Closest English expression: To be over the moon

Conversational; positive emotion. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Avec son vélo, elle est aux anges.
She’s over the moon with her new bike.
A joyful scene among angels.Source note
18

Pleuvoir des

To rain cats and dogs

Literally: To rain ropes

Meaning: To rain heavily and continuously.

Closest English expression: To rain cats and dogs

Conversational; use impersonal il pleut. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Prends un , il pleut des cordes.
Take an umbrella; it’s pouring.
Ropes falling like heavy rain.Source note
19

Être dans le pétrin

To be in a pickle

Literally: To be in the kneading trough

Meaning: To be stuck in a difficult situation.

Closest English expression: To be in a pickle

Conversational; no actual dough is involved. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Sans ni , je suis dans le pétrin.
Without a ticket or money, I’m in a pickle.
A person in a kneading trough.Source note
20

Prendre au pied de la lettre

To take literally

Literally: To take at the foot of the letter

Meaning: To interpret wording exactly, without allowing for exaggeration or metaphor.

Closest English expression: To take literally

Neutral; the object can precede the verb as a pronoun. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

C’était une , la prends pas au pied de la lettre.
It was a joke; don’t take it literally.
A playful scene at the foot of a letter.Source note

Explore these words: Body parts (flashcards) · Time & dates (flashcards) · Emotions & feelings (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

Read French stories

French idioms for feelings and reactions

These expressions describe mood, surprise and emotional pressure. Tone matters, especially when describing another person.

A small collection of expressive theater masks
21

Avoir la pêche

To be full of beans

Literally: To have the peach

Meaning: To feel lively and energetic.

Closest English expression: To be full of beans

Informal; an upbeat self-description. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Après une , j’ai la pêche.
After a good night’s sleep, I’m full of energy.
Source note
22

Avoir le cafard

To have the blues

Literally: To have the cockroach

Meaning: To feel low or gloomy.

Closest English expression: To have the blues

Conversational; not a clinical diagnosis. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Les de pluie, j’ai le cafard.
On rainy days, I sometimes feel down.
Source note
23

une peur

To be terrified

Literally: To have a blue fear

Meaning: To be intensely afraid of something.

Closest English expression: To be terrified

Conversational; de introduces the feared thing. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai une peur bleue des bloqués.
I’m terrified of getting stuck in elevators.
Source note
24

Ne pas être dans son

To be out of sorts

Literally: Not to be in your plate

Meaning: To feel unlike your usual self, physically or emotionally.

Closest English expression: To be out of sorts

Conversational; tactful, nonspecific concern. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Tu n’ pas l’air dans ton assiette aujourd’hui.
You seem out of sorts today.
Source note
25

Avoir la moutarde qui monte au

To feel your temper rising

Literally: To have mustard rising into your nose

Meaning: To feel anger building up.

Closest English expression: To feel your temper rising

Conversational; commonly varied as la moutarde me monte au nez. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

il a ri, j’ai senti la moutarde me monter au nez.
When he laughed again, I felt my temper rising.
Source note
26

un dans la

To have a frog in your throat

Literally: To have a cat in the throat

Meaning: To have a rough or blocked-sounding voice and need to clear your throat.

Closest English expression: To have a frog in your throat

Conversational; about the voice. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

-moi, j’ai un chat dans la .
Excuse me; I have a frog in my throat.
Source note
27

Être bien dans sa peau

To be comfortable in your own skin

Literally: To be comfortable in your skin

Meaning: To feel at ease with yourself and who you are.

Closest English expression: To be comfortable in your own skin

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Depuis qu’elle a changé de travail, elle est bien dans sa peau.
Since changing jobs, she feels comfortable with herself.
Source note
28

Avoir la gueule de bois

To have a hangover

Literally: To have a wooden mouth

Meaning: To feel the aftereffects of drinking too much alcohol.

Closest English expression: To have a hangover

Informal; gueule is coarse in other contexts. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il de l’ parce qu’il a la gueule de bois.
He’s drinking water because he has a hangover.
Source note
29

Être crevé

To be exhausted

Literally: To be burst or punctured

Meaning: To feel extremely tired.

Closest English expression: To be exhausted

Informal; adjective agrees with the subject. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Après la randonnée, nous sommes crevés.
After the hike, we’re exhausted.
Source note
30

En ras le

To be fed up

Literally: To have it up to the rim of the bowl

Meaning: To have reached the limit of your patience.

Closest English expression: To be fed up

Informal; stronger irritation than a neutral complaint. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’en ras le bol de ce bruit.
I’m fed up with this noise.
Source note

Explore these words: Time & dates (flashcards) · Emotions & feelings (flashcards) · Body parts (flashcards)

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French idioms about people and relationships

Use these phrases to recognize personality and social dynamics. Critical descriptions can sound unkind when directed at someone.

Two friends talking beside a park bench
31

Avoir un poil dans la main

To be bone-idle

Literally: To have a hair in the palm

Meaning: To habitually avoid effort or work.

Closest English expression: To be bone-idle

Informal; unkind if directed at someone. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il refuse même de ranger sa : il a un poil dans la main.
He won’t even put his cup away; he’s bone-idle.
Source note
32

les dents longues

To be hungry for success

Literally: To have long teeth

Meaning: To be strongly ambitious, often with a competitive edge.

Closest English expression: To be hungry for success

Conversational; can suggest ruthless ambition. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ce jeune candidat les dents longues.
That young candidate is hungry for success.
Source note
33

Avoir le cœur sur la main

To be generous-hearted

Literally: To have your heart on your hand

Meaning: To be generous and ready to help.

Closest English expression: To be generous-hearted

Conversational praise. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Elle accueille tout le , elle a le cœur sur la main.
She welcomes everyone; she is generous-hearted.
Source note
34

Avoir le melon

To have a big head

Literally: To have the melon

Meaning: To have an inflated opinion of yourself.

Closest English expression: To have a big head

Informal; critical or teasing. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Depuis son , il a un peu le melon.
Since his success, he’s got a bit of a big head.
Source note
35

Avoir du

To be full of fighting spirit

Literally: To have eaten lion

Meaning: To display unusual energy, determination or force.

Closest English expression: To be full of fighting spirit

Conversational; often admiring surprise. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Tu sans pause : tu as mangé du lion !
You’re working without stopping; you’re full of energy!
Source note
36

Avoir une d’éléphant

To have a memory like an elephant

Literally: To have an elephant’s memory

Meaning: To remember names, details or events exceptionally well.

Closest English expression: To have a memory like an elephant

Conversational praise. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Elle se souvient de chaque date, elle a une d’éléphant.
She remembers every date; she has an elephant’s memory.
Source note
37

Être comme ses pieds

To be as thick as two short planks

Literally: To be as stupid as your feet

Meaning: To behave or seem very foolish.

Closest English expression: To be as thick as two short planks

Insulting; learn to recognize it, avoid casual personal use. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le est présenté comme bête comme ses pieds.
The character is portrayed as extremely foolish.
Source note
38

Avoir dos

To be a convenient scapegoat

Literally: To have a good back

Meaning: To be a convenient person or thing to blame.

Closest English expression: To be a convenient scapegoat

Conversational; often challenges an excuse. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le mauvais a bon dos : le était mal organisé.
The weather is a convenient scapegoat; the departure was already badly organized.
Source note
39

Se regarder le nombril

To navel-gaze

Literally: To look at your own navel

Meaning: To focus excessively on yourself and your concerns.

Closest English expression: To navel-gaze

Conversational; critical. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Arrêtons de nous regarder le nombril et écoutons les autres.
Let’s stop navel-gazing and listen to others.
Source note
40

Être au

To be quick-tempered

Literally: To be milk soup

Meaning: To be quick to flare up in anger.

Closest English expression: To be quick-tempered

Conversational; describes temperament. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il est un peu soupe au lait, mais il se .
He’s a little quick-tempered, but calms down quickly.
Source note

Explore these words: Food & cooking (flashcards) · Meals & restaurants (flashcards) · Animals (flashcards)

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French idioms for work and decisions

These expressions make effort, progress and choices concrete. Practice them with a real task in mind.

A desk with tools, a checklist and a small lamp
41

Avoir du sur la

To have your work cut out

Literally: To have bread on the board

Meaning: To have plenty of work still to do.

Closest English expression: To have your work cut out

Conversational; tasks ahead, not necessarily impossible tasks. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Avec ces dossiers, nous avons du pain sur la planche.
With these ten files, we have plenty of work to do.
Source note
42

Faire d’une pierre coups

To kill two birds with one stone

Literally: To make two hits with one stone

Meaning: To get two useful results from a single action.

Closest English expression: To kill two birds with one stone

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

En révisant avec toi, je fais d’une pierre coups : j’ et je te vois.
Studying with you gives me two benefits: I learn and I see you.
Source note
43

Avoir les pieds et les poings liés

To have your hands tied

Literally: To have your feet and fists tied

Meaning: To lack freedom to act because of constraints.

Closest English expression: To have your hands tied

Neutral; poings means fists, not points. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Sans autorisation, nous avons les pieds et les poings liés.
Without authorization, our hands are tied.
Source note
44

Les dans le

With your eyes closed

Literally: With your fingers in your nose

Meaning: To do something with very little effort.

Closest English expression: With your eyes closed

Informal; can sound boastful. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Elle a réussi ce les doigts dans le nez.
She passed that test with ease.
Source note
45

la froide

To keep a cool head

Literally: To keep your head cool

Meaning: To remain calm and rational under pressure.

Closest English expression: To keep a cool head

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Même dans l’, gardons la froide.
Even in an emergency, let’s keep a cool head.
Source note
46

Se la

To rack your brains

Literally: To dig into your head

Meaning: To think hard in search of an answer or idea.

Closest English expression: To rack your brains

Conversational; a reflexive verb. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Je me creuse la tête pour trouver un .
I’m racking my brains to find a gift.
Source note
47

Se la

To go to a lot of trouble

Literally: To break your head

Meaning: To go to considerable trouble thinking through or arranging something.

Closest English expression: To go to a lot of trouble

Conversational; often in reassurance. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

te casse pas la tête pour le dîner, une suffit.
Don’t go to a lot of trouble over dinner; soup is enough.
Source note
48

Pédaler dans la semoule

To get nowhere fast

Literally: To pedal in semolina

Meaning: To expend effort without making useful progress.

Closest English expression: To get nowhere fast

Informal, humorous. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Sans les , on pédale dans la semoule.
Without the right data, we’re getting nowhere fast.
Source note
49

Avoir la dans le guidon

To be buried in work

Literally: To have your head in the handlebars

Meaning: To be absorbed in urgent work and lose broader perspective.

Closest English expression: To be buried in work

Conversational; stresses intense focus or pressure. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Avec la , j’ai la tête dans le guidon.
With delivery tomorrow, I’m buried in work.
Source note
50

Prendre son à mains

To pluck up courage

Literally: To take your courage in both hands

Meaning: To gather the resolve to do something intimidating.

Closest English expression: To pluck up courage

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai pris mon à deux mains et j’ai .
I plucked up courage and called.
Source note

Explore these words: Body parts (flashcards) · Numbers (flashcards) · Food & cooking (flashcards)

Put these words into context with a story at your level.

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French idioms about food, money and daily life

Everyday objects become memorable images for spending, habits and social life. The English equivalents give the sense rather than a word-for-word match.

A market basket beside a small coin purse
51

Jeter l’ par les

To throw money away

Literally: To throw money through the windows

Meaning: To spend money wastefully.

Closest English expression: To throw money away

Conversational; critical of waste. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Acheter ça sans comparer les , c’est jeter l’ par les fenêtres.
Buying that without comparing prices is throwing money away.
Source note
52

Pour une bouchée de

For next to nothing

Literally: For a mouthful of bread

Meaning: For a very small amount of money.

Closest English expression: For next to nothing

Conversational; requires a price context. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai trouvé cette table pour une bouchée de pain.
I found this table for next to nothing.
Source note
53

Rouler sur l’

To be rolling in money

Literally: To roll on gold

Meaning: To have abundant money.

Closest English expression: To be rolling in money

Conversational; often negated. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Nous ne roulons pas sur l’or, mais nous avons .
We’re not rolling in money, but we have enough.
Source note
54

Se la ceinture

To tighten your belt

Literally: To tighten your belt

Meaning: To reduce spending or consumption to manage limited resources.

Closest English expression: To tighten your belt

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il faut se la ceinture jusqu’au .
We need to tighten our belts until next month.
Source note
55

Mettre du dans les épinards

To bring in a little extra money

Literally: To put butter in the spinach

Meaning: To improve your finances with extra income.

Closest English expression: To bring in a little extra money

Conversational; a modest improvement rather than sudden wealth. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ces cours du du beurre dans les épinards.
Those evening lessons bring in a little extra money.
Source note
56

Être sur la

To be penniless

Literally: To be on the straw

Meaning: To be left without money or resources.

Closest English expression: To be penniless

Conversational, often exaggerated. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Cette dépense imprévue me mettre sur la paille.
This unexpected expense is going to leave me penniless.
Source note
57

sur le champignon

To step on the gas

Literally: To press on the mushroom

Meaning: To accelerate a vehicle.

Closest English expression: To step on the gas

Informal; can extend to speeding up work. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Inutile d’appuyer sur le champignon, nous sommes en .
No need to step on the gas; we’re early.
Source note
58

à tombeau ouvert

To drive at breakneck speed

Literally: To drive with the tomb open

Meaning: To drive at a dangerously high speed.

Closest English expression: To drive at breakneck speed

Conversational; disapproving of danger. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Il roulait à tombeau ouvert sur cette petite route.
He was driving at breakneck speed on that narrow road.
Source note
59

Faire le

To take a bridging day off

Literally: To make the bridge

Meaning: To take a workday off between a public holiday and the weekend.

Closest English expression: To take a bridging day off

Neutral; familiar in France’s holiday calendar. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le est férié, alors je fais le pont vendredi.
Thursday is a holiday, so I’m taking Friday off too.
Source note
60

Être sur son et un

To be dressed to the nines

Literally: To be on your thirty-one

Meaning: To be dressed especially elegantly for an occasion.

Closest English expression: To be dressed to the nines

Conversational; also written sur son 31. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Pour le , tout le était sur son trente et un.
Everyone was dressed to the nines for the wedding.
Source note

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French idioms for speaking and understanding

These phrases concern tact, attention, suspicion and the way a conversation develops. The examples supply the grammatical frame.

Two speech bubbles beside an open book with no writing
61

Faire la sourde

To turn a deaf ear

Literally: To make the deaf ear

Meaning: To deliberately ignore what someone asks or says.

Closest English expression: To turn a deaf ear

Neutral conversational; deliberate ignoring. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

La direction fait la sourde à nos demandes.
Management turns a deaf ear to our requests.
Source note
62

Appeler un un

To call a spade a spade

Literally: To call a cat a cat

Meaning: To name something directly instead of using a euphemism.

Closest English expression: To call a spade a spade

Conversational; direct, sometimes blunt. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Appelons un chat un chat : c’est un .
Let’s call a spade a spade: it’s a failure.
Source note
63

N’y voir du

To be none the wiser

Literally: To see only fire in it

Meaning: To fail to notice a trick, substitution or deception.

Closest English expression: To be none the wiser

Conversational; often after a deception or unnoticed change. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ils ont changé la décoration et il n’y a vu que du feu.
They changed the decoration and he was none the wiser.
Source note
64

Aller au

To get straight to the point

Literally: To go straight to the goal

Meaning: To address the central issue without digressions.

Closest English expression: To get straight to the point

Neutral; useful in meetings. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Je vais aller au but : nous d’aide.
I’ll get straight to the point: we need help.
Source note
65

la main dans le

To catch red-handed

Literally: To catch with the hand in the bag

Meaning: To catch someone in the act of doing something wrong.

Closest English expression: To catch red-handed

Conversational; object pronoun names the person caught. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

On l’a pris la main dans le sac en train de .
He was caught red-handed copying.
Source note
66

Avoir un mot sur le bout de la langue

To have a word on the tip of your tongue

Literally: To have a word on the tip of your tongue

Meaning: To almost remember a word but not quite retrieve it.

Closest English expression: To have a word on the tip of your tongue

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai son prénom sur le bout de la langue.
Her first name is on the tip of my tongue.
Source note
67

En un d’œil

In the blink of an eye

Literally: In a wink of the eye

Meaning: In a very short time.

Closest English expression: In the blink of an eye

Neutral; an adverbial expression. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le dossier a disparu en un clin d’.
The file disappeared in the blink of an eye.
Source note
68

un coup d’

To take a quick look

Literally: To throw a stroke of the eye

Meaning: To look briefly at something.

Closest English expression: To take a quick look

Neutral conversational; à introduces the object. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Peux-tu jeter un coup d’œil à mon ?
Can you take a quick look at my message?
Source note
69

Faire

To hit the mark

Literally: To hit the fly

Meaning: To achieve exactly the intended effect, as with a remark or argument.

Closest English expression: To hit the mark

Neutral figurative use; also a shooting expression. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Sa dernière a fait mouche.
Her last question hit the mark.
Source note
70

Changer de crèmerie

To take your business elsewhere

Literally: To change dairy shop

Meaning: To switch the place, provider or group you usually use.

Closest English expression: To take your business elsewhere

Informal; can extend beyond an actual shop. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le service est décevant, je vais changer de crèmerie.
The service is disappointing; I’ll take my business elsewhere.
Source note

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French idioms for problems and setbacks

Use these when something goes wrong or a situation becomes hard to manage. Avoid treating humorous exaggeration as a literal description.

A winding path with a small obstacle and a clear destination
71

Tourner au vinaigre

To turn sour

Literally: To turn into vinegar

Meaning: For an encounter or situation to become unpleasant or hostile.

Closest English expression: To turn sour

Conversational; especially arguments. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

La a tourné au vinaigre.
The discussion turned sour.
Source note
72

Tomber dans le panneau

To fall for it

Literally: To fall into the trap-panel

Meaning: To be deceived by a trick or false appearance.

Closest English expression: To fall for it

Conversational; panneau is a fixed part of the image. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le était , mais je suis tombé dans le panneau.
The message was fake, but I fell for it.
Source note
73

Ne pas être sorti de l’auberge

To not be out of the woods

Literally: Not to have left the inn

Meaning: To still face substantial difficulties before a problem is resolved.

Closest English expression: To not be out of the woods

Informal; often humorous frustration. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Avec cette nouvelle panne, on n’est pas sortis de l’auberge.
With this new breakdown, we’re not out of the woods.
Source note
74

Être tiré par les

To be far-fetched

Literally: To be pulled by the hair

Meaning: To be forced, unlikely or difficult to believe.

Closest English expression: To be far-fetched

Conversational; typically describes explanations or connections. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Cette est un peu tirée par les cheveux.
That explanation is a little far-fetched.
Source note
75

les pieds à quelqu’un

To get on someone’s nerves

Literally: To break someone’s feet

Meaning: To annoy someone persistently.

Closest English expression: To get on someone’s nerves

Informal; direct personal use sounds rude. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ce bruit me casse les pieds.
This noise is getting on my nerves.
Source note
76

du sur le dos de quelqu’un

To talk behind someone’s back

Literally: To break sugar on someone’s back

Meaning: To criticize someone when they are absent.

Closest English expression: To talk behind someone’s back

Informal; disapproving of gossip. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Ils cassent du sucre sur son dos dès qu’elle .
They talk behind her back as soon as she leaves.
Source note
77

une épine du pied à quelqu’un

To get someone out of a fix

Literally: To remove a thorn from someone’s foot

Meaning: To solve a difficulty that has been troubling someone.

Closest English expression: To get someone out of a fix

Neutral conversational; often expresses gratitude. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

En trouvant ce , tu m’enlèves une épine du pied.
By finding that ticket, you’re getting me out of a fix.
Source note
78

C’est une paire de manches.

That’s a different kettle of fish.

Literally: It’s another pair of sleeves.

Meaning: The new task is a different matter, usually harder than the previous one.

Closest English expression: That’s a different kettle of fish.

Conversational; a comparison is implied. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Lire le est ; la table, c’est une paire de manches.
Reading the plan is easy; building the table is another matter.
Source note
79

La d’ qui fait déborder le vase

The last straw

Literally: The drop of water that makes the vase overflow

Meaning: The final small annoyance that makes accumulated problems unbearable.

Closest English expression: The last straw

Neutral conversational; not simply any isolated problem. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Cette a été la goutte d’eau qui a déborder le vase.
That remark was the last straw.
Source note
80

l’éponge

To throw in the towel

Literally: To throw the sponge

Meaning: To abandon a struggle or stop trying.

Closest English expression: To throw in the towel

Neutral conversational. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Après trois essais, je refuse de l’éponge.
After three attempts, I still refuse to throw in the towel.
Source note

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10 traditional French proverbs and sayings

A proverb normally makes a complete observation, whereas an idiom often fits inside a sentence. These sayings express perspectives, not rules that are always true.

A tree with deep roots beside an old open book
81

Petit à petit, l’ fait son nid.

Little by little, you get there.

Literally: Little by little, the bird builds its nest.

Meaning: Repeated small efforts can build something substantial.

Closest English expression: Little by little, you get there.

Traditional encouragement; not a promise of effortless success. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ mots par : petit à petit, l’oiseau fait son nid.
I learn five words a day; little by little, you get there.
Source note
82

L’habit pas le moine.

Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Literally: The habit does not make the monk.

Meaning: Appearance alone does not reveal someone’s character or ability.

Closest English expression: Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Traditional proverb about appearances. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Son est , mais l’habit pas le moine.
His suit is elegant, but don’t judge a book by its cover.
Source note
83

Mieux vaut que .

Better late than never.

Literally: Better late than never.

Meaning: A delayed worthwhile action can still be worth doing.

Closest English expression: Better late than never.

Traditional; may also be said with mild irony. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

J’ai répondu : mieux que .
I finally replied; better late than never.
Source note
84

Après la , le beau .

Better days will come.

Literally: After rain, fine weather.

Meaning: A hard period may be followed by a better one.

Closest English expression: Better days will come.

Traditional reassurance; figurative rather than a forecast. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Cette est difficile, mais après la pluie, le beau temps.
This week is hard, but better days will come.
Source note
85

Tout vient à point à qui attendre.

Good things come to those who wait.

Literally: Everything comes in due time to one who knows how to wait.

Meaning: Patience can allow the right opportunity to arrive.

Closest English expression: Good things come to those who wait.

Traditional praise of patience; not advice to avoid all action. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le est : tout vient à point à qui sait attendre.
The parcel arrived; good things come to those who wait.
Source note
86

Les petits ruisseaux les grandes .

Small amounts add up.

Literally: Small streams make great rivers.

Meaning: Many modest contributions can add up to a large result.

Closest English expression: Small amounts add up.

Traditional; often money or collective contributions. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Même comptent : les petits ruisseaux les grandes rivières.
Even two euros count; small amounts add up.
Source note
87

échaudé craint l’ froide.

Once bitten, twice shy.

Literally: A scalded cat fears cold water.

Meaning: A bad experience can make someone wary even of safer situations.

Closest English expression: Once bitten, twice shy.

Traditional observation about learned caution. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Après cette , je tout : chat échaudé craint l’eau froide.
After that scam, I check everything; once bitten, twice shy.
Source note
88

Il faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir .

Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Literally: Do not sell the bear’s skin before killing it.

Meaning: Do not treat an uncertain success as already achieved.

Closest English expression: Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

Traditional figurative caution; not literal hunting advice. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Attendons le résultat : il faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir tué.
Let’s wait for the result; don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
Source note
89

À , on regarde pas les dents.

Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

Literally: One does not inspect the teeth of a gift horse.

Meaning: Avoid being overly critical of a gift freely given.

Closest English expression: Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

Traditional variant; more natural here than the older la bride form in the record heading. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le vélo est , mais à donné, on regarde pas les dents.
The bike is old, but don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
Source note
90

Qui vivra verra.

Time will tell.

Literally: Whoever lives will see.

Meaning: Time will reveal an answer that cannot yet be known.

Closest English expression: Time will tell.

Traditional; often expresses patient uncertainty. · Standard French; usage varies by speaker and setting.

In a sentence

Le système sera-t-il meilleur ? Qui vivra verra.
Will the new system be better? Time will tell.
Source note

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French idioms: frequently asked questions

What are French idioms?

Idioms are established expressions whose intended meaning is not simply the sum of their words. Learn the whole phrase with its grammatical frame and a situation where it fits.

Which French idioms should beginners learn first?

Start with the essential 20. Choose three that describe your own routine, read the examples aloud, then reuse the same sentence pattern with details from your life.

What is the difference between an idiom and a proverb?

An idiom usually fills a role within a sentence. A proverb is usually a complete saying that offers a general observation or advice. The last section separates proverbs from the 80 idioms.

Can I translate an English idiom word for word?

Usually that loses the meaning. Compare the literal image with the natural English equivalent, then learn the target-language expression on its own terms.

Are these expressions formal or informal?

Many belong to conversation, while some also fit neutral writing. Each entry gives a register note; teasing or critical expressions need more care than neutral descriptions.

Do all speakers use every expression?

No. Recognition, frequency and personal preference differ across regions, generations and situations. This is a learning selection, not a measured frequency ranking.

Should I change the words in an idiom?

Conjugate verbs and adjust pronouns as the sentence requires, but keep the fixed image intact. The example shows one natural use; changing a key noun can destroy the idiom.

How can I remember idioms?

Picture the literal scene, connect it to the figurative meaning, and recall one example. Review a few at a time and notice them in stories or conversation rather than forcing many into one exchange.

What are the top 10 French idioms?

There is no single universal top ten: useful choices depend on whom you speak with and what you talk about. Start with ten items from the essential list, learn their example sentences, and notice which ones recur in your reading and conversations.

Make these words part of your day

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Sources and verification

English translations and examples were written for this guide. Source notes distinguish documented expressions, original practice sentences, and literary quotations. Literary excerpts retain the language of their original period.

Source notes for all 90 entries
  1. Tomber dans les pommes: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  2. Donner sa langue au chat: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [wik]
  3. Coûter les yeux de la tête: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  4. Poser un lapin à quelqu’un: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  5. Avoir d’autres chats à fouetter: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  6. Mettre son grain de sel: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  7. Manger sur le pouce: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  8. Faire la grasse matinée: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  9. Avoir un coup de foudre: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  10. Faire la tête: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  11. En faire tout un fromage: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  12. Couper la poire en deux: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  13. Raconter des salades: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  14. Prendre ses jambes à son cou: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  15. Chercher la petite bête: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  16. Avoir les yeux plus gros que le ventre: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  17. Être aux anges: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  18. Pleuvoir des cordes: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  19. Être dans le pétrin: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  20. Prendre au pied de la lettre: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  21. Avoir la pêche: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  22. Avoir le cafard: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  23. Avoir une peur bleue: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  24. Ne pas être dans son assiette: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  25. Avoir la moutarde qui monte au nez: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  26. Avoir un chat dans la gorge: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  27. Être bien dans sa peau: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  28. Avoir la gueule de bois: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  29. Être crevé: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  30. En avoir ras le bol: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  31. Avoir un poil dans la main: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  32. Avoir les dents longues: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  33. Avoir le cœur sur la main: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  34. Avoir le melon: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  35. Avoir mangé du lion: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  36. Avoir une mémoire d’éléphant: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  37. Être bête comme ses pieds: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  38. Avoir bon dos: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  39. Se regarder le nombril: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  40. Être soupe au lait: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  41. Avoir du pain sur la planche: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  42. Faire d’une pierre deux coups: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  43. Avoir les pieds et les poings liés: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  44. Les doigts dans le nez: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [wik]
  45. Garder la tête froide: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  46. Se creuser la tête: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  47. Se casser la tête: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  48. Pédaler dans la semoule: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  49. Avoir la tête dans le guidon: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  50. Prendre son courage à deux mains: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  51. Jeter l’argent par les fenêtres: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  52. Pour une bouchée de pain: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  53. Rouler sur l’or: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  54. Se serrer la ceinture: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  55. Mettre du beurre dans les épinards: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  56. Être sur la paille: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  57. Appuyer sur le champignon: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  58. Rouler à tombeau ouvert: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  59. Faire le pont: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  60. Être sur son trente et un: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  61. Faire la sourde oreille: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy] [wik]
  62. Appeler un chat un chat: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  63. N’y voir que du feu: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  64. Aller droit au but: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  65. Prendre la main dans le sac: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  66. Avoir un mot sur le bout de la langue: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  67. En un clin d’œil: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  68. Jeter un coup d’œil: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  69. Faire mouche: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  70. Changer de crèmerie: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  71. Tourner au vinaigre: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  72. Tomber dans le panneau: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  73. Ne pas être sorti de l’auberge: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [copy]
  74. Être tiré par les cheveux: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  75. Casser les pieds à quelqu’un: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  76. Casser du sucre sur le dos de quelqu’un: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni] [copy]
  77. Enlever une épine du pied à quelqu’un: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  78. C’est une autre paire de manches.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  79. La goutte d’eau qui fait déborder le vase: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [omni]
  80. Jeter l’éponge: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [wik]
  81. Petit à petit, l’oiseau fait son nid.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59299]
  82. L’habit ne fait pas le moine.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p58607]
  83. Mieux vaut tard que jamais.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59246]
  84. Après la pluie, le beau temps.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59577]
  85. Tout vient à point à qui sait attendre.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59394]
  86. Les petits ruisseaux font les grandes rivières.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59586]
  87. Chat échaudé craint l’eau froide.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p58779]
  88. Il ne faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir tué.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p59127]
  89. À cheval donné, on ne regarde pas les dents.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p58047]
  90. Qui vivra verra.: Expression and sense attested in the linked reference. Literal translation, explanation and example sentence written by Inklingo; no claim of a single inventor or precise origin. [p58696]