serviette hygiénique maxi
The English phrase 'maxi pad' is translated into French as serviette hygiénique maxi.
This phrase refers to an absorbent piece of material worn during menstruation to absorb blood. In common usage, the word 'maxi' is often dropped and serviette hygiénique is the standard term for a sanitary pad.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using serviette de table when referring to menstrual products. That term specifically means a cloth or paper napkin used for dining.
Did you know?
- In French, the word serviette is used for three completely different items: a dining napkin, a bathroom towel and a menstrual pad.
- While maxi is used for size, French brands often use nuit (night) to describe the most absorbent pads, regardless of whether they are used during the day.
- The word serviette is formed by adding the diminutive suffix -ette to the verb servir, meaning 'to serve'.
Examples in context
- Il faut acheter une serviette hygiénique maxi.We need to buy a maxi pad.
- Est-ce qu'il reste une serviette hygiénique maxi ?Is there a maxi pad left?
Example conversation
At a pharmacy, Emma asks Gabriel for help.
- GabrielEmma, tu as besoin de quelque chose ?Emma, do you need something?
- EmmaOui, je cherche une serviette hygiénique maxi.Yes, I am looking for a maxi pad.
- GabrielJe vais regarder dans ce rayon.I will look in this aisle.
- EmmaMerci Gabriel, c'est très gentil.Thank you Gabriel, that is very kind.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries serviette, CC BY-SA 4.0.
