famille dysfonctionnelle
The English phrase dysfunctional family is translated into French as famille dysfonctionnelle.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural form, dysfunctional families, you use familles dysfonctionnelles, which requires adding an s to both the noun and the adjective.
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, a dysfunctional family member might be described as la brebis galeuse, meaning 'the scabby sheep' or the black sheep.
- The word famille shares a root with the English word 'family', but its Latin ancestor familia originally referred to the entire household, including servants and slaves.
- Using the term dysfonctionnelle can sometimes sound more clinical or psychological in French than it does in English, often implying a professional diagnosis.
Examples in context
- Ma famille est très dysfonctionnelle, nous avons du mal à communiquer et cela entraîne souvent des disputes.My family is very dysfunctional, we struggle to communicate, which often leads to arguments.
- La famille de mon voisin est chaotique, ils ont toujours des problèmes et se disputent constamment.My neighbor's family is chaotic, they always have issues and constantly argue.
- C'est une famille dysfonctionnelle.It is a dysfunctional family.
- Il a grandi dans une famille dysfonctionnelle.He grew up in a dysfunctional family.
- Elle ne veut pas parler de sa famille dysfonctionnelle.She does not want to talk about her dysfunctional family.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are talking about their childhoods.
- NathanMes parents se sont toujours disputés.My parents always fought.
- ChloéC'est dur de vivre dans une famille dysfonctionnelle.It's hard to live in a dysfunctional family.
- NathanOui, c'était très stressant pour moi.Yes, it was very stressful for me.
- ChloéJe comprends, Nathan.I understand, Nathan.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries famille, CC BY-SA 4.0.
