bonhomme
The French phrase bonhomme means "little man" or "fellow".
bonhomme is used to refer to a man or a fellow, often in a diminutive sense to describe a small man or a small child. It is also the base word for the compound bonhomme de neige, which means "snowman".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In informal speech, bonhomme can be used to refer to a man in a way that is either slightly patronizing or affectionate. While bonhomme has this specific nuance, you might also encounter the term Mec to mean "man" or "guy".
Did you know?
- In certain contexts, bonhomme can be used as a synonym for 'puppet' or a 'marionette', treating the person as a lifeless figure controlled by others.
- In a technical or artisanal sense, bonhomme can refer to a crude sketch or a 'stick figure' drawing.
- In some parts of France, you might hear the expression un bonhomme to refer to a person who is surprisingly easy to trick or manipulate.
Examples in context
- C'est un petit bonhomme mignon.It is a cute little guy.
- Regarde ce bonhomme en chocolat.Look at this little chocolate man.
- Le bonhomme de neige est immense.The snowman is huge.
Example conversation
Manon and Lucas are looking at a drawing in a book.
- ManonRegarde ce bonhomme sur le dessin.Look at this little guy in the drawing.
- LucasIl est très rigolo, ce bonhomme.This little guy is very funny.
- ManonTu veux le dessiner aussi ?Do you want to draw him too?
- LucasNon, je vais dessiner un bonhomme de neige.No, I am going to draw a snowman.
