bout de chou
The English phrase 'cutie pie' can be translated into French as bout de chou.
The term bout de chou is most commonly used to refer to babies or very small children. Other informal and endearing ways to call someone a 'cutie pie' include Chou, Ma puce (which means 'my flea') and Mon lapin (which means 'my rabbit').
Meaning: cute person (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase bout de chou literally translates to "piece of cabbage."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
bout de chou is an affectionate, informal term used in a domestic or endearing context. Similarly, Chou, Ma puce and Mon lapin are all informal ways to express endearment.
When do people say it?
In France, terms like Ma puce and Mon lapin are popular endearing nicknames used to express affection.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Quel bout de chou, ce bébé !What a cutie pie, this baby!
- Mon petit bout de chou me manque.I miss my little cutie pie.
- Regarde ce petit bout de chou.Look at this little cutie pie.
Example conversation
Léa and Gabriel are looking at a photo of a newborn baby.
- LéaRegarde cette photo de ton neveu.Look at this photo of your nephew.
- GabrielOh, quel bout de chou !Oh, what a cutie pie!
- LéaIl est vraiment adorable.He is really adorable.
- GabrielOui, c'est un vrai petit bout de chou.Yes, he is a real little cutie pie.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bout, chou, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
