J'ai mal à la tête
The English phrase "my brain hurts" is translated into French as J'ai mal à la tête.
The standard way to express that you have a headache is to say J'ai mal à la tête.
Which one should you use?
In contrast, J'ai mal au cerveau is a literal translation of "my brain hurts". It is much less common and is often used figuratively to express mental exhaustion.
Is it said differently in some regions?
J'ai mal au ciboulot is an informal expression used in some Canadian French dialects.
Did you know?
- The phrase J'ai mal au ciboulot uses the word ciboulot, which is a slang term for the head inspired by the word for 'spring onion'.
- The word tête actually traces its origins to the Latin word testa, which meant a 'pot' or a 'jug'.
- While tête is used for the body part, the older word chef survived in specific expressions and as the word for 'boss'.
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are studying in a library.
- HugoEst-ce que tu peux baisser la musique, Chloé ?Can you turn down the music, Chloé?
- ChloéBien sûr, Hugo. Qu'est-ce qui se passe ?Of course, Hugo. What's going on?
- HugoJe suis fatigué et j'ai mal à la tête.I am tired and I have a headache.
- ChloéTu devrais faire une petite pause.You should take a short break.
