qui déchire
The English word 'badass' can be translated into French as qui déchire.
In French, qui déchire is used to describe someone or something that has an extreme appearance, etc., considered admirable. qui déchire is used for something that is stylistically impressive or 'cool'. You may also use the word Génial(e) to mean awesome or great, which can imply a sense of being badass.
Meaning: having an extreme appearance, etc., considered admirable (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase qui déchire literally means 'that which tears' or 'which rips'.
Which one should you use?
There are different ways to express toughness or negativity depending on your intent. If you want to describe a person who is tough or resilient, use dur à cuire. If you instead mean to describe a person who is a mean or contemptible jerk, use the vulgar terms connard or connasse.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
qui déchire is an informal way to describe something or someone as impressive or awesome.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase qui déchire is invariable, meaning it does not change for gender or number.
Did you know?
- If you describe a person as dur à cuire, you are using a culinary metaphor. It literally translates to 'hard to cook', suggesting the person is so tough they cannot be softened by heat.
- In French, the word 'déchirer' can also be used in the expression déchirer le cœur, meaning to break someone's heart, showing the word's range from violence to intense emotion.
- The word Génial can be used to mean 'badass' in the sense of awesome, but its root relates to 'genius', linking brilliance to coolness.
Examples in context
- C'est un style qui déchire.It's a badass style.
- Il a un look qui déchire.He has a badass look.
Example conversation
Two friends are looking at a motorcycle in a showroom.
- GabrielRegarde cette moto, elle a un design qui déchire !Look at this motorcycle, it has a badass design!
- ManonTu as raison, Gabriel, elle est vraiment impressionnante.You're right, Gabriel, it is really impressive.
- GabrielElle est parfaite pour toi, c'est un truc qui déchire.It's perfect for you, it's something badass.
- ManonC'est vrai, mais elle coûte trop cher.It's true, but it costs too much.
