belles dames
The English phrase "beautiful ladies" is translated into French as belles dames.
The phrase belles dames is a respectful way to refer to a group of beautiful ladies. The expression dames magnifiques is a formal way to say 'beautiful ladies' that combines beauty with grandeur.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the feminine plural adjective belles (beautiful) and the feminine plural noun dames (ladies).
Which one should you use?
dames magnifiques is a formal way to combine beauty with grandeur. In contrast, belles gonzesses is a slang term for beautiful ladies.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
belles dames is a respectful term. Using dames instead of femmes makes this phrase sound more formal, polite or even slightly old-fashioned/literary. However, you should avoid the slang expression belles gonzesses, as it can be considered impolite or vulgar in certain contexts.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the slang term belles gonzesses, as it can be considered impolite or vulgar in certain contexts.
Did you know?
- In French chess terminology, the most powerful piece on the board is called la dame.
- In French, belle can be used as a noun to describe a person of great beauty, as seen in the expression la belle du bal.
- The word dame is a direct cognate of the English 'dame', but in French it is a common way to show respect to any woman of standing, not just those with titles.
Examples in context
- Mesdames et messieurs, permettez-moi de vous présenter ces belles dames.Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce these beautiful ladies.
- Lors de ce gala, nous avons accueilli de nombreuses dames magnifiques.During this gala, we welcomed numerous beautiful ladies.
- Ces belles dames arrivent.These beautiful ladies are arriving.
- Le poète chante pour les belles dames.The poet sings for the beautiful ladies.
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are at a high-society gala.
- ChloéRegarde ces belles dames dans la salle.Look at those beautiful ladies in the room.
- LucasOui, elles sont très élégantes, Chloé.Yes, they are very elegant, Chloé.
- ChloéDevons-nous aller les saluer ?Should we go greet them?
- LucasC'est une excellente idée.That is an excellent idea.
