collet monté
The English phrase "prim and proper" can be translated into French as collet monté.
If you wish to emphasize a sense of sophistication alongside proper behavior, you may also use Distingué(e).
Meaning: Translations (adj)
Did you know?
- The phrase collet monté literally translates to 'raised collar', referring to the high-necked, stiff collars that forced a rigid, upright posture in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- While collet monté describes someone who is prim and proper, it often carries a subtle nuance of being overly rigid, stiff or lacking in spontaneity.
- In French, a person who is collet monté is the opposite of someone who is décontracté, a word used to describe a relaxed and informal person.
Example conversation
Emma and Gabriel are discussing a new colleague's personality.
- EmmaQue penses-tu de notre nouvelle collègue ?What do you think of our new colleague?
- GabrielElle a l'air très collet monté, non ?She seems very prim and proper, doesn't she?
- EmmaOui, elle est très formelle avec tout le monde.Yes, she is very formal with everyone.
- GabrielJ'espère qu'elle va se détendre un peu.I hope she will relax a little.
