cheveux épais
The English phrase coarse hair is translated into French as cheveux épais.
The term describes hair that has a thick diameter or a strong texture. This is the opposite of cheveux fins, which refers to hair with a small diameter or thin texture.
Which one should you use?
Cheveux drus is a formal way to describe coarse hair and carries a connotation of rigidity. The phrase Cheveux drus comme des poils de brosse is an informal way to describe coarse hair by likening it to the bristles of a brush.
Did you know?
- Using the word poils to describe the hair on a human head is generally considered an insult, as it implies the person resembles an animal.
- In French, the term drus is often used to describe not just hair, but also the 'thickness' of a forest or dense vegetation.
- The word poils used in the expression poils de brosse generally refers to animal fur or body hair rather than the hair on a human head. Using it here emphasizes the rough, non-human texture of the hair.
Examples in context
- Elle a les cheveux épais.She has coarse hair.
- Ses cheveux épais sont difficiles à coiffer.His coarse hair is difficult to style.
Example conversation
Léa and Gabriel are talking about hair care products.
- LéaCe shampooing est fait pour les cheveux épais.This shampoo is made for coarse hair.
- GabrielC'est parfait, car j'ai les cheveux épais.That's perfect, because I have coarse hair.
- LéaEst-ce que ça fonctionne bien pour toi ?Does it work well for you?
- GabrielOui, mes cheveux sont beaucoup plus doux.Yes, my hair is much softer.
