requin-lutin
The English phrase "goblin shark" is translated into French as requin-lutin.
The term refers to the species Mitsukurina owstoni.
Meaning: Mitsukurina owstoni (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This is a compound noun where requin means shark and lutin means goblin or imp.
Did you know?
- In French, the word lutin is frequently used to describe the 'elves' in the story of Santa Claus, who help prepare gifts for children.
- The adjective lutin can be used informally to describe a child who is particularly nimble, mischievous and full of energy.
- While 'goblin' in English often carries a menacing or dark connotation, the French term lutin can feel slightly more whimsical or playful, almost like a 'sprite' or 'pixie'.
Examples in context
- Mon ami, qui est un biologiste marin, m'a parlé du requin lutin.My friend, who is a marine biologist, told me about the goblin shark.
- J'ai vu une photo d'un requin gobelin aujourd'hui. C'était vraiment étrange !I saw a photo of a goblin shark today. It was really strange!
- J'ai vu un requin-lutin dans le documentaire.I saw a goblin shark in the documentary.
- Le requin-lutin vit dans les profondeurs de l'océan.The goblin shark lives in the depths of the ocean.
- Est-ce que le requin-lutin est très impressionnant ?Is the goblin shark very impressive?
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are visiting an aquarium.
- NathanRegarde ce requin-lutin, Manon !Look at this goblin shark, Manon!
- ManonC'est incroyable, il est vraiment effrayant.It's incredible, it is really scary.
- NathanSon nez est très particulier.Its nose is very peculiar.
- ManonLe requin-lutin est fascinant.The goblin shark is fascinating.
