rideaux
The English phrase "curtains" is translated into French as rideaux.
rideaux refers to pieces of fabric or material hung to cover a window. To describe the action of closing the curtains, you can use the phrase tirer les rideaux, which literally means "to pull the curtains". Conversely, to open them, you use ouvrir les rideaux, meaning "to open the curtains".
Which one should you use?
While rideaux is the general term for curtains, the specific term voilages is used when referring to sheer or translucent curtains.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, the term stores is often used to refer to curtains.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the word is rideau.
Did you know?
- The word rideau is used in the idiomatic expression Rideau !, meaning 'That is the end!' or 'Curtains!' It is used to signal that a discussion or an event is abruptly over.
- In French, the word rideau can also be used in the expression un rideau de pluie, which translates to a 'curtain of rain' to describe a very heavy downpour.
- In a French theater, the 'curtain call' is called le rappel, which comes from the verb 'to call back'. It refers to the audience calling the actors back onto the stage for a final bow.
Examples in context
- Les rideaux sont tirés.The curtains are closed.This sentence shows the state of the rideaux being closed.Tatoeba #2218674 by sacredceltic, translation #2213892 by Hybrid
- Tom a ouvert les rideaux.Tom opened the curtains.This sentence describes the action of opening the rideaux.Tatoeba #4654364 by thowas, translation #1164346 by CK
- Les rideaux sont ignifugés.The curtains are fireproof.This sentence describes a specific property of the rideaux.Tatoeba #5955760 by Aiji, translation #5358139 by CK
- Les rideaux de cette pièce sont magnifiques.The curtains in this room are beautiful.
- J'ai trouvé de nouveaux rideaux pour la chambre à coucher.I found new curtains for the bedroom.
- Les tentures de la salle de séjour sont vraiment originales.The curtains in the living room are really unique.
- Nous avons besoin de changer les tentures de la cuisine.We need to change the curtains in the kitchen.
- 32 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are decorating their new apartment.
- LucasTu aimes ces nouveaux rideaux ?Do you like these new curtains?
- ChloéOui, ils sont très élégants.Yes, they are very elegant.
- LucasJe vais les installer demain.I am going to install them tomorrow.
- ChloéC'est une bonne idée, Lucas.That is a good idea, Lucas.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
