Catch Phrase

When I came to France, my excuse for speaking english with some of my friends was that the slang words in english are so much better. After all, my American/Canadian friends had taught an Italian and German how to say "that sucks" and "that blows." They were cautioned however not to say "I suck" or "I blow." There's a difference. One word, big difference. Now when something goes wrong, all these lovely accents come out with these vulgar-ish American phrases.

Ah, language exchange.

So here are my favorite phrases and words in this language exchange.

Tablette de chocolat- A six pack (abdominals). BEST PHRASE EVER. Six pack evokes beer, whereas a tablet of chocolate presents a delicious image. Just saying. Hi mom.

Comme d'hab- Short for "comme d'habitude." This means "as usual." How's it going?

Comme d'hab.

Cadavre- This in the proper sense means a dead body. Slang wise it is an empty booze bottle. When we did a skit in class everyone made references to a fictional party with lots of cadavres. A girl who had arrived late was super disturbed until she asked why people were dying at parties. Then we explained.

Toubib- Doctor! The pronunciation is fun.

J'ai mon dose- I've had enough. Get me outta here, I'm finished. I've had my daily dose.

Bouffer/bouffe- Slang/familiar for to eat and a meal. Je le bouffe. I eat it.

Mecs- Dudes.

Meufs- Ladies. Very slang, only use if you REALLY know this lady, because if not it can seem rude/derogatory. This is an example of verlan. Verlan is a L'enverse language invented in the 80s so criminals, prostitutes and teenagers could talk without the authorities (in whatever form they take) knowing.

Gosse vs. Beau Gosse- A gosse is a child. A beau gosse is an astonishingly attractive young gentleman. Here in the home of stylishly dressed and appearance-concious men, this phrase can be used a couple times a day. The euro babe style seems to be pretty 80s, but not the really weird kind. Just the tight pants and scarves.

Canon- Male/female for a hottie.

Je Pige Que Dalle- I UNDERSTAND NOTHING. This phrase gets me through my day.