Learning a new language is not just about acquiring vocabulary and grammar; it’s also about understanding the cultural nuances and historical roots that shape the language. In the case of the French language, there are numerous expressions that have their origins deeply embedded in history. In this blog post, we will delve into the historical background of 5 French expressions related to the human body, shedding light on the fascinating stories behind them. Join us on this linguistic journey as we unravel the hidden tales of these colorful idioms.
“Avoir la tête sur les épaules” (To have one’s head on one’s shoulders):
The French expression “avoir la tête sur les épaules” is commonly used to describe someone who is level-headed, rational, and has good judgment. This idiom can be traced back to the Middle Ages when knights wore their helmets during battles. The helmet’s weight rested on the shoulders, and it was crucial to ensure that the helmet remained securely in place to protect the knight’s head. Therefore, having one’s head firmly attached to the shoulders became synonymous with possessing sound judgment and stability.
Example:
FR : Ces jeunes femmes ont parfois la réputation d’être têtues et d’avoir la tête sur les épaules : ce sont justement les qualités dont nous aurons besoin.
EN: These young women are sometimes reputed to be stubborn and hard-headed – and that is what we need for the future.
“Se creuser la tête” (To rack one’s brains):
When faced with a complex problem or an intellectual challenge, the French idiom “se creuser la tête” is employed to convey the act of thinking deeply or struggling to find a solution. Its origin can be traced back to the 16th century, during the Renaissance period when scholars and philosophers were highly regarded. The expression metaphorically refers to the mental exertion involved in digging deep into one’s brain, attempting to unravel the mysteries and complexities of a particular subject.
Example:
FR: Elle n’a pas eu à se creuser la tête bien longtemps pour avoir une idée cela n’a pris que quelques minutes.
EN: And she didn’t need to rack his brains for long to hit on her suggestion.
“Avoir les yeux plus gros que le ventre” (To have eyes bigger than one’s stomach):
This well-known French expression is used to describe someone who takes more food than they can actually eat or someone who has excessive ambition. Its origin can be traced back to the 17th century, during the era of extravagant feasts and banquets. In those times, displaying wealth and status was important, and people would often fill their plates with more food than they could consume. Having “les yeux plus gros que le ventre” referred to the act of being visually enticed by the bountiful feast, leading one to take more than they could handle, thus highlighting the need for moderation and practicality.
Example:
FR : La fête s’est déroulée devant une bonne raclette, certaines ayant eu les yeux plus gros que le ventre, se sont gavées ensuite de meringue.
EN: We finished the evening with an excellent raclette, and some of us had the eyes bigger than the tummy, because they finished their meal with meringue.
““Avoir le bras long” (To have a long arm):
The expression “avoir le bras long” is used to describe someone who has significant influence or power. Its origin can be traced back to the 19th century during the period of French colonization. At that time, influential figures in the French government or military were often assigned to distant colonies, requiring them to have a “long arm” to exert control over vast territories. Over time, the expression came to signify someone with extensive reach and influence, even beyond physical distance.
Example:
FR : Comme les gangs ont le bras long, la police doit recourir à diverses stratégies de prévention et d’intervention.
EN: Because gangs cast such a wide net, police must employs a range of prevention and intervention strategies.
“Avoir la dent dure” (To have a hard tooth):
When someone is known for their unforgiving or relentless nature, the French use the expression “avoir la dent dure.” This phrase’s origin can be traced back to the 17th century, a time when dental hygiene was not as advanced as it is today. Having strong, durable teeth was considered a sign of resilience and tenacity. Hence, the expression came to represent someone who could endure challenges and maintain a firm stance.
Example:
FR : En dépit de grandes avancées, les stéréotypes ont toujours la dent dure!
EN: Despite some big steps forward, stereotypes are hard to shift!