cousu
The English phrase "sewn" is translated into French as cousu.
The term is used to describe items that have been joined or fastened together using a needle (called an aiguille) and thread, or by using a sewing machine (known as a machine à coudre).
What does it mean word for word?
The word cousu is the past participle derived from the infinitive verb coudre, which means "to sew".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes to cousue if the object being sewn is a feminine noun. The form changes to cousus if the objects being sewn are masculine plural nouns. The form changes to cousues if the objects being sewn are feminine plural nouns.
Did you know?
- The word cousu shares a common ancestor with the English word 'consonant'.
- The phrase cousu de fil blanc describes a plot or a lie that is too obvious, as if the seams were sewn with a contrasting white thread.
- The expression cousu main is used to describe something meticulously planned or orchestrated behind the scenes, even if it has nothing to do with fabric.
Examples in context
- J'ai cousu cette robe moi-même.I sewed this dress myself.
- Le bouton est mal cousu.The button is sewn on poorly.
- Les pièces du puzzle sont toutes cousues ensemble.The puzzle pieces are all sewn together.
- J'ai raccommodé mon jean déchiré.I sewed up my torn jeans.
- Elle a raccommodé le trou dans sa chaussette.She sewed up the hole in her sock.
- J'ai fait cette robe à la main.I sewed this dress by hand.
- Le bouton est bien cousu.The button is well sewn.
- Ce sac est cousu à la main.This bag is sewn by hand.
- L'ourlet est proprement cousu.The hem is neatly sewn.
Example conversation
Lucas shows Léa a repair he made on his shirt.
- LucasRegarde, j'ai cousu le trou de ma chemise.Look, I sewn up the hole in my shirt.
- LéaC'est très bien fait, Lucas.It is very well done, Lucas.
- LucasEst-ce que ça a l'air trop visible ?Does it look too visible?
- LéaNon, c'est presque invisible car c'est bien cousu.No, it's almost invisible because it is well sewn.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cousu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
