sel et poivre
The English phrase "salt and pepper" is translated into French as sel et poivre.
This phrase refers to the common seasonings used together to flavor food.
Did you know?
- The French word sel is a distant cousin of the English word 'salary'. This is because salt was once so valuable that Roman soldiers were sometimes paid in it, a practice known as 'salarium'.
- The word et meaning 'and' was written as e in Old French for several centuries. The letter 't' was only brought back in the 12th century to match the original Latin spelling.
- While we use 'salt and pepper' to describe a seasoning combination, in French, the word poivre can also describe the general 'peppery' quality or heat of a flavor.
Examples in context
- Voici le duo incontournable de la cuisine française: le sel et le poivre!Here is the unmissable duo of French cuisine: salt and pepper!
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are preparing dinner together in the kitchen.
- NathanManon, où est le sel et poivre ?Manon, where is the salt and pepper?
- ManonC'est juste là, à côté des assiettes.It's right there, next to the plates.
- NathanAh oui, je vais en ajouter un peu.Oh yes, I'm going to add a bit.
- ManonParfait, Nathan, ça sera très bon.Perfect, Nathan, it will be very good.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries et, poivre, sel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
