Mardi gras
Mardi gras is the French term for the carnival known as Mardi Gras.
Meaning: a carnival (name)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of mardi (Tuesday) and gras (fat), literally meaning 'Fat Tuesday'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Dunkerque, Le Carnaval is the preferred term to refer to Mardi Gras.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the noun phrase is typically preceded by the masculine definite article le, as in le Mardi gras.
Did you know?
- The word gras has a linguistic relative in the English word 'crass', which comes from the same Late Latin root 'grassus'. While 'gras' implies richness or fatness, the English version evolved to mean something coarse or lacking refinement.
- The gras in Mardi gras specifically refers to the tradition of eating lard and butter. These rich ingredients were consumed to use up perishable stocks before they were forbidden during Lent.
- Depending on the region of France, the celebration of le Mardi gras may involve specific traditional foods like beignets or bugnes, which are fried dough treats.
Examples in context
- Nous avons célébré le Mardi Gras avec joie et enthousiasmeWe celebrated Mardi Gras with joy and enthusiasm
- On fait quoi pour Mardi Gras?What are we doing for Mardi Gras?
- Il y a un grand défilé pour le Mardi gras.There is a big parade for Mardi gras.
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are discussing upcoming festivities.
- NathanTu vas au défilé pour le Mardi gras ?Are you going to the parade for Mardi gras?
- ManonOui, j'adore les fêtes de Mardi gras !Yes, I love Mardi gras celebrations!
- NathanOn peut y aller ensemble si tu veux.We can go there together if you want.
- ManonC'est une excellente idée, Nathan.That's an excellent idea, Nathan.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gras, mardi, mardi gras, CC BY-SA 4.0.
