sur son 31
The English phrase 'all dolled up' can be translated into French as sur son 31.
This expression is used to describe someone who is dressed in their best clothes and looking fabulous. To use this as a complete thought meaning 'to be all dolled up', you must use the verb être (to be).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase sur son 31 literally translates to 'on his/her 31', where the number 31 is an idiomatic reference to a specific level of elegance.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
sur son 31 is idiomatic and slightly informal, suitable for conversation but not for formal written reports. If you wish to be more formal when describing someone who is well-dressed and groomed, you can use Bien apprêté(e). For informal situations, you might also use Bichonné(e) to suggest someone has taken extra care to look their best, implying attention to grooming and appearance or Être tiré(e) à quatre épingles to convey the idea of being smartly dressed and perfectly put together.
Did you know?
- The word Bichonné(e) comes from bichon, a type of small fluffy dog. To be bichonné(e) is to be pampered and groomed like a prize poodle.
- The phrase être tiré à quatre épingles literally means 'to be pulled by four pins', evoking the image of a garment so perfectly tailored that it requires pins to hold the shape.
- The word sur (meaning 'on') is a direct cognate of the English word 'super', as both come from the Latin 'super'.
Examples in context
- Elle était bien apprêtée pour la soiréeShe was all dolled up for the evening.
- Tu es très élégante ce soir !You are all dolled up tonight!
- Il s'est fait beau pour le mariageHe got all dolled up for the wedding.
- Elle était complètement bichonnée pour la fêteShe was all dolled up for the party.
- Elle était sur son 31 pour l'événementShe was all dolled up for the event.
- Tu es bien sapé(e) pour la soirée !You are all dolled up for the party!
- Elle est sur son 31 pour le mariage.She is all dolled up for the wedding.
- Il est sur son 31 pour son rendez-vous.He is all dolled up for his date.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries son, sur, CC BY-SA 4.0.
