Ferme-la
informal, rude
The common informal way to say "shut up" in Canadian French is Ferme-la. The standard form is Tais-toi, and Ferme ta gueule is vulgar and very aggressive.
Meaning: telling someone to be quiet (phrase)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| Ferme-la | informal, rude |
| Ferme ta gueule | vulgar |
| Tais-toi | neutral, direct |
Which one should you use?
Tais-toi is correct everywhere in the French-speaking world. Ferme-la is shorter and harsher, and you hear it among friends, often as a joke.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
All of these are rude to say to an adult you do not know. To ask politely for quiet, use Un peu de silence, s'il vous plaît.
What mistakes should you avoid?
The vulgar form can start a fight, so a learner is better off recognizing it than using it.
Did you know?
- Ben là is a very Quebec way to start a sentence, a short protest meaning something like "come on now".
Examples in context
- Ferme-la, je n'entends pas le film.Shut up, I cannot hear the movie.
- Tais-toi un peu, s'il te plaît.Be quiet for a bit, please.
- Un peu de silence, s'il vous plaît.A little quiet, please.
Example conversation
Two brothers, Marc and Luc, watch a hockey game at home in Quebec while their father listens from the kitchen.
- MarcFerme-la, Luc, le but s'en vient.Shut up, Luc, a goal is coming.
- LucBen là, je dis juste une affaire.Come on, I am just saying one thing.
- PèreLes gars, tais-toi un peu, tous les deux.Boys, both of you be quiet for a bit.
