poils pubiens
The English phrase 'pubes' is translated into French as poils pubiens.
Meaning: The pubic hair (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of poils (hairs) and the adjective pubiens (pubic).
Which one should you use?
La pilosité pubienne is used specifically in medical or scientific contexts to refer to the pubic hair area. For a more informal approach, you can use Les poils de l'entrejambe (hairs of the crotch) or a colloquial expression like Les poils là-bas (those hairs down there).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is typically used in the plural form poils pubiens when referring to the hair in that area.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the English word 'pubes' when speaking French, as it is not a standard French term for pubic hair. Instead, use poils pubiens.
Did you know?
- The word poil is used in the common idiom avoir le poil à dresser, which means to be terrified or outraged. It literally describes the coarse hair standing on end.
- The term poils is used in the phrase un poil, meaning 'a tiny bit' or 'a smidge' when describing a quantity.
- French makes a strict distinction between poil and cheveu, meaning that calling pubic hair cheveux would be a humorous mistake implying you have a scalp in your groin.
Examples in context
- Mes poils pubiens sont trop longs. Je devrais les couper.My pubes are too long. I should trim them.This sentence demonstrates the use of poils pubiens when discussing hair length.Tatoeba #12949054 by lbdx, translation #12949053 by Lumi
- Certaines personnes retirent leurs poils pubiens.Some people remove their pubic hair.
- Il est possible d'avoir des poils pubiens clairs.It is possible to have light pubic hair.
Example conversation
A doctor is discussing hygiene with a patient.
- GabrielEst-ce que vous avez des démangeaisons au niveau des poils pubiens ?Do you have any itching in the area of your pubic hair?
- ChloéOui, c'est un peu inconfortable.Yes, it is a bit uncomfortable.
- GabrielJe vais vous examiner pour vérifier l'état de vos poils pubiens.I am going to examine you to check the condition of your pubic hair.
- ChloéD'accord, merci Docteur.Okay, thank you Doctor.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
