coup d'un soir
The English phrase "one night stand" is translated into French as coup d'un soir.
The phrase coup d'un soir is used to describe a single sexual encounter between two people that is not intended to lead to a long-term relationship.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, coup d'un soir translates to "a blow of one evening".
How does it change in a sentence?
coup d'un soir is a masculine noun phrase and is typically used with the indefinite article un to form un coup d'un soir.
Did you know?
- While coup d'un soir refers to the act, French speakers often use the term plan cul to describe a recurring but non-romantic sexual partner.
- If you use coup in other contexts, like un coup de foudre, it shifts from a single hit to a romantic 'bolt' of lightning.
- The word coup in this phrase traces back to the Ancient Greek word kólaphos, which refers to a blow or a slap in the face.
Examples in context
- J'ai eu une aventure d'un soir la semaine dernière.I had a one night stand last week.
- Elle est engagée dans des relations éphémères sans s'attacher.She engages in one night stands without getting attached.
- Je n'étais pas prêt(e) pour une relation sérieuse, alors j'ai opté pour des aventures sans lendemain.I wasn't ready for a serious relationship, so I went for one night stands.
- C'était juste un coup d'un soir.It was just a one night stand.
- Il ne cherche pas l'amour, seulement un coup d'un soir.He is not looking for love, only a one night stand.
- Elle regrette son coup d'un soir avec cet homme.She regrets her one night stand with that man.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a recent date at a café.
- NathanEst-ce que c'est devenu sérieux entre vous ?Has it become serious between you two?
- EmmaNon, c'était seulement un coup d'un soir.No, it was only a one night stand.
- NathanTu es sûre que tu ne l'aimes pas ?Are you sure you don't love him?
- EmmaOui, je suis certaine de mon choix.Yes, I am certain of my choice.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries coup, soir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
