Transfert s01e01, Quiz 13: dans nos cartons

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in our plans

“dans nos cartons” can conveys more of a sense of preparation, planning, or things that are yet to be initiated but are under consideration. Read more.

Perhaps this phrase used as a pun here – using an idiom about planning to talk specifically about being in the boxes of moving, perhaps referencing that they’re planning on moving in but getting distracted — by what’s in the boxes, what’s out the window… the neighbor.

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What does “dans nos cartons” mean?

“Dans nos cartons” is a French idiomatic expression that translates to “in our plans” or “on our agenda” in English. It’s used to indicate that something is being planned or considered for future action.

Usage and Context:

• Referring to Future Plans or Projects:
  • Example: “Nous avons plusieurs projets dans nos cartons.” (We have several projects in our plans.)
• Indicating Preparation or Consideration:
  • Often used to suggest that ideas or initiatives are being prepared or thought about, but not yet finalized or public.

English Equivalent:

• The English equivalent would be phrases like “in the pipeline,” “in the works,” or “on the drawing board.”

Commonality of Expression:

• “Dans nos cartons” is a relatively common idiomatic expression in French, particularly in professional or organizational contexts. It metaphorically suggests having something in one’s “box” or “carton,” ready to be unpacked or implemented.

In Summary:

“Dans nos cartons” (in our plans/on our agenda) is used to refer to plans, ideas, or projects being prepared or considered for the future. Similar to the English “in the pipeline” or “on the drawing board,” it’s a common phrase in French, especially in professional settings, to indicate ongoing preparations or considerations.

What does “étagères” mean?

“Des étagères” in French translates to “shelves” in English. The word “étagères” refers to storage surfaces or racks, typically used for holding items such as books, decor, or other objects.

Usage and Context:

• In Homes or Stores:
  • Example: “Nous avons installé des étagères dans la cuisine pour plus d’espace de rangement.” (We installed shelves in the kitchen for more storage space.)
• For Organizational Purposes:
  • Used to describe any kind of shelving used for organizing or displaying items.

Grammatical Structure:

• “Des”: An indefinite article in French, used here as the plural form of “une” (a/an), meaning “some” or “the” in this context.
• “Étagères”: A plural noun meaning “shelves.”

Cultural Context:

• Shelves (“étagères”) are common fixtures in homes, offices, and stores in France, just as in many other cultures, valued for their practicality and functionality in organizing and displaying items.

In Summary:

“Des étagères” means “shelves” in French, referring to storage and organizational structures found in homes, workplaces, and shops. They are essential for keeping items orderly and are commonly mentioned in discussions about interior design, storage, and organization.

What does “on a l’air un peu pareil” mean?

In the phrase “on a l’air un peu pareil,” “on a l’air” translates to “we look” or “we seem” in English. It’s used to indicate the appearance or impression given by someone or something.

Usage and Context:

• Describing Appearance or Impression:
  • In the full phrase “on a l’air un peu pareil” – “we look a bit the same” or “we seem somewhat similar.”
• General Impression or Perception:
  • “On a l’air” can be used to describe how things appear or seem to people in a general sense.

Grammatical Structure:

• “On”: An indefinite pronoun, often used in French in the same way as “we” in English.
• “A l’air”: A phrase consisting of “a” (the third person singular form of “avoir,” meaning “to have”) and “l’air” (literally “the air,” but in this context, it means “appearance” or “seems”).

Cultural Usage:

• “On a l’air” is a commonly used expression in French, reflecting the language’s nuanced way of describing perceptions and appearances. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to more formal discussions.

In Summary:

“On a l’air” (we look/we seem) in “on a l’air un peu pareil” is used in French to describe how people or things appear or seem, indicating a perception of similarity in this context. The expression is versatile and commonly used to convey impressions in a subtle and nuanced manner.

What does “tiens” mean?

“Tiens” is a versatile French word with multiple meanings depending on the context. It can translate to “here” in the sense of offering something to someone, or it can express surprise, interest, or acknowledgment, similar to saying “well” or “oh” in English.

Usage and Context:

1. Offering or Giving Something:
   • Used when handing something to someone.
   • Example: “Tiens, voici ton livre.” (Here, here’s your book.)
2. Expressing Surprise or Interest:
   • To express surprise, realization, or the drawing of attention.
   • Example: “Tiens, tu es déjà là !” (Oh, you’re already here!)

Grammatical Structure:

• Interjection: In most of its uses, “tiens” functions as an interjection, a word thrown into speech to express emotion, reaction, or to draw attention.

Cultural Usage:

• “Tiens” is frequently used in everyday French conversation. It’s a word that carries different meanings based on tone and context, showing the language’s capacity for nuanced expression.

In Summary:

“Tiens” is a multi-purpose French word used to offer something (“here”) or to express surprise or interest (“well,” “oh”). Its meaning varies with context and tone, making it a common and versatile expression in spoken French.

What does “sympa” mean?

“Sympa” is a colloquial French adjective short for “sympathique,” which translates to “nice” or “friendly” in English. It’s used to describe someone or something that is pleasant, likable, or amiable.

Usage and Context:

• Describing People:
  • Used to comment on someone’s pleasant or friendly demeanor.
  • Example: “Il est vraiment sympa.” (He is really nice.)
• Referring to Experiences or Objects:
  • Can also describe enjoyable experiences or appealing objects.
  • Example: “C’était une soirée sympa.” (It was a nice evening.)

Cultural Notes:

• “Sympa” is widely used in casual, everyday French conversation. It reflects the French preference for concise yet expressive ways to describe people and experiences positively.
• The term is part of a trend in French to abbreviate longer words, especially in informal speech.

In Summary:

“Sympa” (nice/friendly) is a common colloquial term in French to describe someone or something that is pleasant, likable, or enjoyable. It’s a versatile and succinct way to convey positive impressions in casual conversation.

What does “les gens” mean?

“Les gens” translates to “people” in English. It refers to individuals or groups in a general sense.

Examples and Usage:

• General Reference:
  • “Les gens aiment la musique.” (People like music.)
• In Contexts:
  • Used to talk about societal trends, behaviors, or opinions.
  • “Dans cette ville, les gens sont très accueillants.” (In this city, people are very welcoming.)

Nuance/Cultural Usage:

• “Les gens” is a neutral term in French, widely used in everyday language for referring to people in general. It’s commonly used in discussions about society, communities, or groups without specifying a particular demographic.

In Summary:

“Les gens” means “people” in French, a basic term for referring to individuals or groups generally. It’s commonly used in everyday conversation and discussions about societal trends or behaviors.