Improve your ear for fast spoken French, even when the topics get vulgar. This clip contains the English “f-bomb” (swear/curse word) in French, can you hear it? Set your level and fill in the blanks with what you hear!
Learn French with a podcast snippet! This clip is is from Transfert s01ep22. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here.
The above audio sample and transcription is from Transfert s01ep22. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here.
be clear
What’s opening up for you with this clip?
The snippet in English
Find a translation of this snippet here, how much of this did you hear?
Moi, j’interprète, bon, tu veux des nanas pour te les sauter, quoi. Ah, soyons soyons clairs ! Et euh et donc là, il me dit, euh et toi, qu’est-ce que tu attends ? Et je lui dis, moi, ce que je veux, c’est rencontrer c’est rencontrer quelqu’un dont je vais tomber amoureuse.
Me, I interpret, well, you want chicks to f*** you, what. Ah, let’s be clear! And uh, so he says to me, uh, and you, what are you waiting for? And I tell him, what I want is to meet someone I’m going to fall in love with.
The above translation from Deepl
What does “te les sauter” mean?
The phrase “te les sauter” in French can be considered inappropriate or offensive depending on the context, as it might involve a vulgar or sexual connotation. “Sauter” in French can mean “to jump” in a literal sense, but it can also have a vulgar implication in the context of sexual relations.
Read on if you aren’t offended…
- The phrase “te les sauter” is colloquial and can carry a suggestive or vulgar connotation, especially in informal or slang contexts.
- “Sauter” literally means “to jump,” but in colloquial French, it can have a sexual implication.
- Without full context, it’s challenging to provide a precise translation or interpretation. However, it’s important to note that such phrases should be used cautiously due to their potential offensiveness or inappropriateness.
Context
- In an informal or slang context, particularly among peers, it might be used in a joking or provocative manner.
- In a formal or public setting, such language would generally be considered inappropriate.
Summary
While “te les sauter” can be translated literally, its colloquial and potentially suggestive meaning in French makes it a phrase to be used with caution. Understanding the context and connotation of such expressions is crucial, especially for learners navigating the complexities of informal and slang language in a new culture.
What does “quoi” mean?
In French, “quoi” is often used as a filler or interjected word in conversations, similar to how “like,” “you know,” or “I mean” are used in English. Its primary meaning is “what,” but when used as a filler, it doesn’t necessarily have a literal meaning. Instead, it serves to punctuate statements, express emphasis, or sometimes indicate a casual tone.
Usage and Interpretation
- At the End of Sentences: One common use of “quoi” as a filler is at the end of a sentence. It’s somewhat akin to saying “you know” in English.
- Example: “C’est compliqué, quoi.” (It’s complicated, you know.)
- To Soften a Statement: Sometimes, “quoi” is used to soften the tone of a statement, making it sound more casual or less assertive.
- Example: “Il faut le faire, quoi.” (You just have to do it, you know.)
- Expressing Frustration or Resignation: In some contexts, it can convey a sense of frustration or resignation.
- Example: “C’est comme ça, quoi.” (That’s just how it is, you know.)
Context
- “Quoi” as a filler is very informal and typically used in casual, everyday speech among native French speakers.
- It’s more common in spoken language and less likely to be found in formal writing or professional discourse.
Summary
In French, “quoi” as a filler or interjected word adds casualness or emphasis to a phrase, without changing the phrase’s literal meaning. It’s a part of the informal spoken language and serves various purposes, such as softening statements, adding emphasis, or expressing subtle nuances like frustration or resignation. Understanding and using such fillers can be a significant part of mastering the nuances of conversational French.
What does “soyons clairs” mean?
“Soyons clairs” translates to “let’s be clear” in English.
Usage and Interpretation
- The phrase is an imperative form used to emphasize the need for clarity and straightforwardness in a conversation or discussion.
- “Soyons” is the first-person plural imperative of “être” (to be), and “clairs” is the masculine plural form of “clair” (clear).
Examples
- “Soyons clairs sur les termes de l’accord.” (Let’s be clear about the terms of the agreement.)
- “Soyons clairs, je ne suis pas d’accord avec cette approche.” (Let’s be clear, I don’t agree with this approach.)
Context
- “Soyons clairs” is often used in discussions where there is a need to avoid misunderstandings or ambiguities.
- It can be used in both formal and informal settings, such as in business meetings, negotiations, personal conversations, or debates.
Summary
“Soyons clairs” means “let’s be clear” in French. It’s used as an imperative to stress the importance of clarity and directness in communication. The phrase is applicable in various contexts where precise understanding and transparency are crucial. It’s a tool for ensuring that all parties are on the same page and to avoid any potential confusion.
This clip is from the “Transfert” podcast
Produced by slate.fr, “Transfert” is a unique French podcast that offers an immersive listening experience. Each episode features real-life stories narrated by the people who lived them. These personal narratives cover a wide range of human experiences and emotions, providing listeners with profound insights into the lives and minds of others. The storytelling is intimate and engaging, making it an excellent resource for French language learners to improve their listening skills while connecting with compelling, authentic content.
Improving your French Listening Comprehension with Podcasts
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Improve your ear for fast spoken French, even when the topics get vulgar. This clip contains the English “f-bomb” (swear/curse word) in French, can you hear it? Set your level and fill in the blanks with what you hear!