chiffons
The English phrase "rags" is translated into French as chiffons.
The word chiffons refers to pieces of old, torn cloth used for cleaning surfaces. When referring to a single rag, use the masculine singular form un chiffon.
Which one should you use?
While chiffon can mean a rag for cleaning, it is also the name of a lightweight, sheer fabric used in clothing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the word is chiffon. Because it is a masculine noun, you use the masculine article un when referring to a single rag.
Did you know?
- The word chiffon shares a root with the word chiffre, which means 'digit' or 'number', because both originally referred to scraps of paper or fragments.
- The term chiffonade used in professional cooking is a direct descendant of the idea of cutting material into strips, similar to how one would cut up 'chiffons'.
- In historical French contexts, chiffonniers were professional rag-pickers who collected chiffons from streets to sell to papermakers.
Examples in context
- J'ai trouvé des guenilles dans la vieille grange.I found some rags in the old barn.
- Donne-moi ces chiffons pour nettoyer la table.Give me those rags to clean the table.
- J'ai besoin de quelques chiffons propres.I need a few clean rags.
Example conversation
Chloé and Gabriel are cleaning their apartment.
- ChloéGabriel, où sont les chiffons ?Gabriel, where are the rags?
- GabrielIls sont dans le tiroir de la cuisine.They are in the kitchen drawer.
- ChloéParfait, j'en ai besoin pour le salon.Perfect, I need them for the living room.
- GabrielJe vais t'apporter des chiffons propres.I will bring you some clean rags.
