boeuf musqué
The English phrase 'musk ox' is boeuf musqué in French.
boeuf musqué refers to the large Arctic mammal.
Meaning: Arctic mammal (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a literal translation where boeuf means ox and musqué means musk-scented.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, such as in des boeufs musqués (musk oxen), both the noun and the adjective must take an 's'.
Did you know?
- Despite the name, the 'ox' in boeuf musqué is actually a member of the goat and sheep subfamily, not the true ox subfamily.
- In French, the word boeuf is used in the common idiom avoir un coeur de boeuf to describe someone who is very courageous or strong.
- The French word musqué can also describe a type of wine or grape, such as the Muscat, because of their aromatic scent.
Examples in context
- Le boeuf musqué vit dans l'Arctique.The musk ox lives in the Arctic.
- J'ai vu un boeuf musqué au zoo.I saw a musk ox at the zoo.
- Le boeuf musqué a une fourrure épaisse.The musk ox has thick fur.
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are watching a nature documentary on TV.
- LucasRegarde ce boeuf musqué, Chloé.Look at this musk ox, Chloé.
- ChloéIl est vraiment impressionnant.It is truly impressive.
- LucasEst-ce qu'il est très grand ?Is it very large?
- ChloéOui, il est immense.Yes, it is huge.
