bois de cerf
The English phrase "deer antlers" is translated into French as bois de cerf.
This phrase refers to the branched horns that grow on the heads of deer.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, bois de cerf translates to "wood of deer", where bois means wood and cerf means deer.
Which one should you use?
In French, you should use bois for the branched antlers of deer, whereas the word cornes is used for the unbranched horns of animals such as goats or cows. You may also see the phrase Les bois de cerf used to denote deer antlers.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase bois de cerf is used as a mass noun and does not typically take a plural form to indicate multiple antlers.
Did you know?
- The term bois for antlers is used in the French expression perdre ses bois, which can be used metaphorically to describe losing one's power or status.
- The word bois is used for antlers because it shares a root with the word for 'grove' or 'woods'. The branched shape of the antlers reminded early speakers of the branches of a forest.
- In French folklore and traditional storytelling, the phrase bois de cerf is often linked to the 'king of the forest', reflecting a cultural reverence for the animal's majesty.
Examples in context
- Les bois de cerf sont un bon indicateur de l'âge d'un cerf.Deer antlers are a good indicator of a deer's age.
- Regarde les bois du cerf que j'ai trouvés en forêt!Look at the deer antlers I found in the forest!
- Il a trouvé des bois de cerf dans la forêt.He found deer antlers in the forest.
- Il a trouvé un beau bois de cerf en forêt.He found a beautiful deer antler in the forest.
- Le bois de cerf est fixé sur le mur.The deer antler is mounted on the wall.
- Elle collectionne le bois de cerf séché.She collects dried deer antlers.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are looking at decorations in an antique shop.
- HugoRegarde ce magnifique bois de cerf là-bas.Look at that magnificent deer antler over there.
- ManonOui, il irait très bien dans ton salon.Yes, it would look great in your living room.
- HugoTu penses qu'il est trop grand ?Do you think it is too big?
- ManonNon, il est parfait pour l'espace.No, it is perfect for the space.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bois, cerf, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
